THEME park bosses in North Yorkshire will still go ahead with the unveiling of a new water ride today, as police investigate the death of a 16-year-old girl who fell 100ft from a rollercoaster water ride in west Wales.
Hayley Williams, from Pontypool, was fatally injured on the Hydro ride near the resort of Tenby in Pembrokeshire yesterday. The ride at Oakwood theme park was the first of its type to incorporate an 85 degree angle and it is claimed to produce the biggest splash by a water ride.
The Lost River Ride, which opens today at Flamingo Land Theme Park and Zoo, Kirby Misperton, cost in the region of £4 million to create.
The family, water-flume, themed ride meanders through the grasslands of the Lost Kingdom, which is home to exotic species such as hippos, giraffes and rhinos.
Melanie Wood, whose family owns the Ryedale theme park, and Pleasure Island at Cleethorpes, said: "Our ride is not a coaster. It is a ride that meanders through the animal exhibits and gives people a chance to see exotic nature up close with a small splash at the end.
"Speed and thrill-seeking are not the ideas behind our ride. Our ride is certified and will open to the public today."
Updated: 10:36 Friday, April 16, 2004
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