Coding roadshow joins #AmazingAccrington Soapbox Challenge

#AmazingAccrington's ever-popular Soapbox Challenge returns for 2022 on Saturday, 27th August, from 10-4.

It's expected to bring thousands of people into the town to watch the event and participate in the town centre programme of events - and watch more than 35 runs down the challenge itself from specially constructed pit lanes and viewing areas.

All profits made from entry fees will once again go to Maundy Relief, the charity set up to benefit the people of Hyndburn. 

An exciting addition to Amazing Accrington's events for 2022 is The CODE Show, a local coding roadshow that celebrates how 1980's Britain embraced the home computer. Do you remember the BBC B Micro, Sinclair ZX81, Sinclair ZX Spectrum, and Commodore 64?

They're all available, plus much more for hands on experiences, a trip down memory lane and a look into the future. Come along to play on the games - and be inspired to get into coding yourself. Exhibits also on display include a Sinclair C5 and 1980's technology, such as a dial-up telephone and video recorder, that in the 21st century fits into your mobile phone as an app! 

25 gaming devices will be available and free to use within the Market Hall. The exhibition, 3 x 80" big screens and interactive computer stations are suitable for all ages and create an impressive display.

While having fun, you can also see if you or a family member have any aptitude or interest in coding. A pathway into a career in digital can be found with Sundown Solutions or Accrington and Rossendale College, who both have teams on site for the Soapbox Challenge and will be on hand for any help or advice. You can come down, have fun, and maybe find a new career or training course as well!

Murray Dawson, chair of #AmazingAccrington, commented: "This is the first time all the 25 gaming devices at The Code Show will be available to the public, and there are experts on hand to show visitors everything from augmented reality to Pac-Man!"

Sameena King, market manager for Accrington Market, added: "What a great event to host in Accrington Market Hall. I encourage people to come in and see us and everything we have to offer - you can see if your kids know how to work a dial telephone, and get them into coding while they're there! You can also browse our pop up stalls, and existing market, shops and cafes."

Heath Groves, CEO of Sundown Solutions, commented: "This event fits in with our ethos of engaging young people, who might want a career in tech. We are working with Accrington and Rossendale College to provide training, so it's ideal that we will be there on the day to help!"

Sara Britcliffe, MP for Hyndburn and Haslingden, said: "There are a large variety of digital jobs available in Hyndburn, and while having great fun at the roadshow I hope people are encouraged into taking up these skills for themselves!"

Miles Parkinson, leader of Hyndburn Borough Council, said: "This sounds like a great exhibition and display, and something new and different for Accrington. Come down to the Market Hall to see it for yourself - and don't forget to Shop Local while you're here!"

Marlene Haworth, deputy Leader of Hyndburn Council, added: "It was great to discuss all the wonderful plans for the roadshow today - this will be a great addition to the day, and will be certain to bring visitors into our Market Hall to see everything we have to offer!"

Sponsors for the Soapbox Challenge include Sundown Solutions, Nelson and Colne College Group, Emerson & Renwick, and Financial Affairs.

Check out the Amazing Accrington website www.amazingaccrington.co.uk and their social media channels for more coverage from the event.