20 Apr 2015

When many of us take a second to think about our dentist, we might not associate them with being adrenaline-fuelled risk-takers. But come 12 July one dentist is looking to change that perception.

Ben Atkins, Trustee at the British Dental Health Foundation and Principle Dentist at Revive Dental Care, is looking to live life in the fast lane and take part in the Red Bull Soapbox Race.

The Soapbox Race is an international event in which amateur drivers' race homemade soapbox vehicles. Each hand-made machine is fuelled by nothing but sheer courage and the force of gravity.

Previous designs have included a piano, a giant baby carriage, a clown, a massive corn on the cob and a jail cell, but Manchester-based Ben plans on competing with a smile - quite literally.

Ben's application to organisers is to build a SMILE soapbox in conjunction with ADI Digital Communications, who are once again providing the public screens at the event, taking place at Alexandra Palace, London.

The SMILE soapbox has enormous red lips and sparkling white teeth. It will be accompanied by three outrageous tooth fairies, a period-dressed driver and a flying dummy photographer.

Ben's proposal will also have a live camera link from the SMILE soapbox to all live ADI screens. This year's Industrial Revolution theme will also be followed, as the camera will be fixed inside a "19th century" tripod mounted camera.

To satisfy his need for speed, Ben hopes to be selected for the race in the coming months, so he can get to work building the soapbox and ensure all spectators leave the event with a smile on their face