KEEN competitors will be putting the pedal to the metal when they turn out for this year's annual British Pedal Car Grand Prix.

Once again sponsored by Ringwood Brewery, the event takes place on Sunday, July 10, seeing the main streets of Ringwood town centre closed to make way for the circuit.

Nearly 70 teams are registered to take part this year bringing along with them their specially-constructed modes of transport - some of which are made solely for the event.

Jim Stride, race director, said: "This year we're running two races. We are expecting 68 teams to enter and they will all be racing the two-hour endurance race."

New to this year is a technological feat to help both spectators and race participants find out where different teams are on the leader board.

"People have the ability to have updates on their devices to see where the teams are in the race and what the lap times are," Mr Stride added. "It's the first year we have tried this. We have gone through quite a lot of pain to get this going!

"It's hopefully going to be more enjoyable for spectators to see what's going on and for the teams as well. If they know they're in fourth they might try harder to reach third."

Anywhere between 5,000-10,000 people are expected to turn out this year depending on the weather.

Teams will start signing from 8-10am, at the Furlong Centre, and the drivers' safety briefing will be held at 10.05am, before the first of the races at 10.45am.

The podium awards ceremony takes place at 4.40pm.

For more information visit the website britishpedalcargrandprix.org.