SOAPBOX racing, fairground rides and pony rides are just some of the attractions in store at this summer’s Thirsk and Sowerby Festival.

The family event returns to the Flatts at Sowerby on August 5 and following the success of its first outing last year, organisers have expanded the festival to include new events.

These include a climbing wall and a portable caving system to give people of all ages a unique experience of trying these sports.

Favourites from last year are back and these include field archery, birds of prey, a marching band and free bouncy castles.

The soap box derby also returns and there will be a stunt motorcyclist and a dog agility show with the chance for owners to try the course.

Once again there will be food and craft stalls as well as a mobile bar.