Dozens of teams will race homemade soapbox carts through the centre of Sheffield this summer as part of the city’s first-ever derby, raising money for youth homelessness charity Roundabout.

Event organisers, Krazy Races, have partnered with the charity to bring the free spectator event to the city on 21 June.

Up to 40 teams are expected to take part in the race, which will see drivers hurtling down Fargate from Barker’s Pool in decorated soapbox vehicles built by the teams themselves.

Danny Scoffin, head of business at Krazy Races, said: “We are thrilled to bring Krazy Races to Sheffield for the very first time. With Roundabout at the heart of the event, it’s not just about the racing – It’s about making a real difference for young people across South Yorkshire.

“This promises to be an unforgettable day for participants and spectators alike.”

The event will also feature live entertainment, stalls and a fun fair, with organisers hoping it will attract large crowds, estimated to be between 15,000 and 20,000, to the city centre while raising vital funds for young people facing homelessness.

Organisers hope the event will bring thousands of spectators into the city centre while raising awareness of youth homelessness and the work charities are doing across South Yorkshire.

Founded in 1977, Roundabout supports young people aged 16 to 25 who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness across South Yorkshire. The charity provides accommodation as well as practical support designed to help young people move towards independent living.

Alongside housing support, Roundabout works with young people to develop everyday skills such as cooking, budgeting and managing a household. The charity also encourages former service users to share their experiences in schools, universities and community groups to raise awareness of youth homelessness.

Emily Jones, fundraising manager for Roundabout, said: “Roundabout has invested £80,000 to put on this event, but it is currently at only 50 per cent capacity for racers.

“Money raised from this event will go back into providing valuable sources for our service users so we can continue to support those most in need.

“We currently have no under-25s living rough on the streets of Sheffield. I think we are the only city in the UK that can truly claim that.”

Teams of up to five people can enter the race, with the named driver aged 18 or over. All entry fees will go directly to Roundabout to support its work with vulnerable young people.

Local businesses are also invited to support the event by sponsoring adverts or donating equipment such as crash barriers, portable toilets, flyers and straw bales for seating.

Organisers say the derby aims to combine entertainment with fundraising while highlighting the work being done locally to tackle youth homelessness.

The event will take place on 21 June, with teams and sponsors still able to sign up ahead of the race. For team entries and sponsorship enquiries, visit www.krazyraces.co.uk.