Mud flew and wheels span as the Bettws Banger Racers roared into fast and furious action on Sunday, raising around £18,500 for charity.

“Considering the atrocious weather it went really well. It was really good,” said chairman Alun Horn.

“Everyone had a good day. The feedback was really good, everyone I spoke to said it was worth coming and braving the weather.”

Alun said that the wet weather made the speed of the cars go down, making the event safer and easier to control. Around 85 cars took part in the event, with only a few bailing on the day due to the wet and rainy conditions. 

Other events and activities took place on the day too, including bungee trampolines and go-karting. 

All of the proceeds from the event will be donated to charity, with around half going to established charities such as the Wales Air Ambulance and the other half going to smaller, community-based organisations, such as clubs, schools and churches. 

The event didn’t raise as much as it hoped to this year due to the unfortunate weather; an incredible £25,000 was raised at last year’s Banger Racing. However, £18,000 is still a huge amount of money. 

Alun said: “We were down this year, but that sort of money still makes a big difference.”

Full details of the exact money raised and where it will go to will be realised at a presentation night, yet to be announced. 

The Bettws Banger Racing has now raised an impressive total of £128,500 over the eight years it has been running, with this year’s profit included. 

Alun wants to thank everyone involved in the event: “The landowners, the drivers who entertained us, the vendors who showed up and still had a cracking day, the spectators who braved the showers, the sponsors, and of course to all our volunteers, marshals, tractor drivers, commentators, gate staff, parking attendants, and the many many unsung heroes who helped to make Bettws Banger Racing 2018 a success in spite of a bit of a drizzle.”

All photos by Phil Blagg