ALTON Towers fans have been left disappointed after discovering that an event at the park would not be going ahead this year.
The resort is set to open its doors for business in March after closing for the winter, but 2024 will not see them host a Blue Light Card day.
The special early entrance events enable Blue Light Card holders, including members of the emergency services, NHS, social care sector, and armed forces, the chance to visit the park before others.
However, this year the event will not be going ahead, with maintenance work being carried out at Alton Towers instead.
Blue Light Card confirmed the news via X, formerly Twitter, saying: “Unfortunately, due to planned extended maintenance at the attraction, as well as extensive work being undertaken to bring back one of its major coasters, Alton Towers is unable to host an exclusive Member Day this year.
“This decision was not made lightly, and we understand that you may be disappointed.
“We are working closely with Alton Towers to offer our members incredible savings on days out, so keep your eyes peeled for more information soon.”
One fan commented on the news, saying it was “sad to see” but added: “At the same time it’s great to see so much investment taking place.”
Another simply responded with angry and sad face emojis.
It’s not the first time the Blue Light Card day has been cancelled at Alton Towers, with one of two planned days thwarted by bad weather last year.
For this year however, it’s work on the rides at the park that is stopping people from attending early.
The “major coaster” mentioned by Blue Light Card is Nemesis, which will return to the park as Nemesis Reborn after a year of refurbishment work was carried out on the popular ride.
Some Alton Towers fans were understanding of the need to cancel the Blue Light Card days because of this and are looking forward to getting one of their favourite rides back.
One responded: “They have to make sure Nemesis is up to code before it opens.”
Another wrote: “It seems like the right thing to do, especially with Nemesis construction well under way!”
A date for Nemesis’ return has yet to be confirmed by the park, but fans are hopeful it will be up and running by March 16 when Alton Towers opens its doors for the 2024 season.
Nemesis was first unleashed to the public in March 1994 and has become a favourite among thrill-seekers since, drawing people from all over the world to the theme park.
Now, having undergone the biggest overhaul in its 30-year history, the ride will now be known as Nemesis Reborn once it is back up and running.
Bianca Sammut, Divisional Director at Alton Towers Resort, said: “Nemesis is utterly cherished by generations of thrill-seekers.
“As Europe’s first inverted rollercoaster it occupies a special place in the heart for so many.
“We’re keeping tight-lipped about the exact date of its return for now, but we can assure you, the wait will be worth it.”
Read more on the Scottish Sun
Meanwhile, this popular attraction at Alton Towers was finally forced to close after 21 years.
And these rides also left the park at the end of last year.
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