Town centre set for motors, soapbox action and a wartime flypast
Stockport town centre will be the focus of a motorsport-themed family day out on Sunday 9 August, when a display of classic Italian cars will sit alongside the popular free Krazy Races soapbox derby and a planned Battle of Britain memorial flight.
The Italian Auto Moto Club will bring around 40 classic Italian cars — including retro Ferraris and Lamborghinis — to the area immediately outside the covered market. The market will open specially for the day from 10:00–16:30, offering extra retail activity on a Sunday when it is not usually trading.
Krazy Races organisers say the derby will take over St Peter's Square, with roughly 30 teams racing homemade vehicles down to Chestergate. Teams will be judged on a variety of criteria, with points awarded for fastest time and most stylish design among other categories.
"We're always looking for ways to evolve Krazy Races, and this is a really exciting addition for Stockport," said Danny Scoffin, head of brand & strategic development for Krazy Races.
Totally Stockport's BID manager also welcomed the addition, saying organisers had delivered on the brief to bring something new to the event.
"Seeing such an impressive collection of retro Ferraris and Lamborghinis across Stockport Market will be an incredible sight and a real draw for visitors," said Shaun Freeman-Jones, Totally Stockport BID Manager.
What to expect on the day
Residents and visitors can expect a mix of static displays, competitive soapbox racing and an aerial spectacle. Key details confirmed by organisers:
- Classic car show: ~40 cars from the Italian Auto Moto Club, sited outside the covered market.
- Krazy Races: ~30 soapbox teams racing from St Peter's Square to Chestergate.
- Market opening: Market stalls open 10:00–16:30 (special Sunday opening).
- Battle of Britain memorial flight: Historic aircraft scheduled to fly over as part of the day's entertainment.
Local benefits and likely impacts
The combined event is designed to increase footfall in the town centre and support businesses trading in and around the market. With the market open outside its normal hours, traders have an extra opportunity to sell to visitors drawn by the cars and the derby. The visual attractions of classic Italian marques and a heritage flight are likely to encourage families and enthusiasts to spend time in Stockport rather than travelling elsewhere.
Organisers have emphasised spectacle as well as community engagement: the soapbox element remains a participatory, grassroots competition while the car show adds a high-profile display of rare and desirable vehicles. The Battle of Britain memorial flight will also add a commemorative dimension to what is otherwise a light-hearted day of activity.
Practical information
Attendees should note the market's extended Sunday hours of 10:00–16:30 and that the race route will move from St Peter's Square down to Chestergate. Visitors intending to come specifically for the car display or Krazy Races may wish to arrive early to find parking and a vantage point for the soapbox run.
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Classic car show | ~40 Italian cars outside Stockport Market |
| Krazy Races | ~30 teams racing St Peter's Square to Chestergate |
| Market opening | 10:00–16:30 (special Sunday opening) |
| Battle of Britain flight | Historic aircraft to fly over during the day |
Further practical details and any last-minute updates will be made available by event organisers and Totally Stockport. For anyone planning to attend, the combination of classic cars, community racing and a commemorative flypast promises a varied and family-friendly day in the heart of Stockport.
