Thrill-seeking over-70s brave theme park celebrations

A group of thrill-seeking over-70-year-olds jumped at the chance to brave the rides at Drayton Manor Resort to mark its major milestone.

The theme park, in Tamworth, Staffordshire, invited the special guests as part of its 75th anniversary.

The 180-acre site was first opened by George and Vera Bryan as an amusement park in 1950 and now houses 50 rides and attractions, Europe's only Thomas Land, based on the children's television series Thomas & Friends, and a zoo.

"I've been going there for more than 50 years," said Trevor Dawson, 71, from Coventry.

Mr Dawson was among 15 pensioners, who have visited the park over the years, to enjoy the Bounty Pirate Ship and Wave Swinger rides.

Speaking to BBC Radio WM, the grandfather added: "I got my first car in the early 70s, and we went to Drayton Manor and have loved it ever since.

"I love the adrenaline of it; it's all perfectly safe because you're strapped in, so it's really good. It's a bit of a rush."

Barry Moore, 75, said: "I first came to Drayton Manor as a schoolboy in the 1950s. I've always loved going on the rides there and am pleased to say that I still do.

"As a family, we brought our kids here as they grew up, and now we're thrilled to share the experience with our grandkids."

Over the decades, the park saw the introduction of thrill rides including Shockwave in 1994 and Stormforce 10 in 1999.

It became a resort in 2011 following the opening of a hotel.

Victoria Lynn, managing director at Drayton Manor Resort, said: "When we asked if there were any over 70s who wanted to join in our celebrations, we couldn't believe the number of people who wanted to be involved. It really does prove that age is just a number."

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