IT’S a bit like Marmite – you either love it or hate it. What's On birminghammail Administrator Senior video journalist 23:33, 12 Oct 2012Updated 17:03, 23 Oct 2012 ...

The classic attraction only lasted at Festival Park for two seasons, with it more than likely being sold after losing out to the 1001 Nights ride in its last season.

By 1890, Alton Towers was attracting crowds of thousands to watch "acrobats, lion tamers, elephants, bands, and fireworks," as well as to see the gardens.

Opening on April 4, 1980, the modern park was originally inspired by Disneyland. The theme park opening at Alton Towers included the Corkscrew - Britain’s first double loop rollercoaster.