A MADCAP race which sees amateur daredevils ride self-built contraptions down a steep cobbled hill is returning for the third time.

York's Micklegate Run Soapbox Race is revving up for action on Bank Holiday Monday, August 27.

The event is already a firm favourite with locals and tourists alike, was the brainchild of Shelagh Garside, a former Micklegate business owner, who wanted to restore it to its former glory and get the attention she felt it deserved.

The event is run by volunteers and can cost more than £40,000 to put on. However last year’s event attracted 20,000 spectators to the area and brought an estimated spend of £1.2m into York.

As well as the race, the day offers fairground rides and a display of supercars by the river, which proved hugely popular last year.

Bands The Mothers and These Jaded Streets will be performing and food and drink stalls will be provided by local businesses.

This Sunday, well in advance of activities, there will be a scrutineering day at the velodrome at York Sports Village, to make sure that all the vehicles are road-worthy.

To accommodate activities and ensure safety the council is putting traffic restrictions in place.

Vehicles will not be able to travel along Bar Lane, Blossom Street, between Micklegate Bar and Queen Street, Bridge Street, George Hudson Street, Low Ousegate, Micklegate, Nessgate, Priory Street and St Martin’s Lane.