Thousands of people turned out to experience the thrill of the chase yesterday, as Ellon was transformed into a high-speed racing circuit.
The annual Ellon Pedal Car Race – which has raised just under £20,000 for charity in the past three years – has become a fixture of the summer calendar.
The town’s roads were shut off from 9am-5pm as crowds of people lined the streets to watch the day’s events unfold.
This year’s winners were Spex Re-In-Cart-Nation, made up of four locals, who fended off competition from 15 other teams.
And organisers of the popular event say they are on track to break all previous fundraising records.
This year proceeds will be awarded to the Special Nursery at Aberdeen Maternity Hospital, and other local causes identified by event organisers Ellon Rotary Club.
Last night race chairman Mike Watson, of the rotary club, said the event had been a “huge success”.
He said: “The day went extremely well and a good day was had by all.
“The turnout was extremely pleasing, there was between 2,000-3,000 people there, which we were delighted with.
“The weather is always a big factor and we were greatly helped by the sunshine this year.
“It’s also looking like we’ve broken the record for money raised, but it will be a few days before we know the exact total.”
This year, the event consisted of the main pedal car race as well as five bicycle races, and two running events, organised by the Ythan Cycle Club and Ellon Athletics Club.
As well as the sporting events, stalls were also set up in the Market Street car park, and a range of unusual bikes were on display in Neil Ross Square.
The Ellon and District British Legion Pipe Band were also on hand to entertain the crowds and lead the pre-race parade.
