HOME     ARTICLES     GALLERIES     ABOUT US     FORUM     LINKS     CONTACT     JOYLAND BOOKS


BITSoftheBEACH: Vikingar


 

You have to go back to 1956, Belle Vue, Manchester, to find the roots of the Vikingar. Known then as the Water Chute and situated next to the Hyde Road turnstiles, it wasn't until 1978 that it was dismantled and the parts sold on to The Pleasure Beach management.
 
It was officially opened by George Hamilton IV - er...who else? (Actually a famous Country & Western singer from the period.)
 
Several years ago this side friction coaster was re-themed and re-named as Vikingar. (There is still one sign up on the ride that says Water Chute).
 
It was great to see Vikingar operating for the 2003 season as there were many rumours circulating as to whether or not it was going to be removed!
 
That said, it was only open on rare occasions (in particular at weekends). It was the only major ride that DIDN'T feature on the official web site in 2003.
 
The ride was pictured (although not referred to) on leaflets given out with wristbands in 2003. But it is not pictured in the 2004 leaflets!
 
...Does this then mark the end of an era for this classic ride?
 
LAST KNOWN PRICES:
 
ALL DAY WRISTBANDS ACCEPTED
 
SEPARATE 2004 TICKET PRICE: 2

THEMAGICEYE  |  Terms and Conditions |  Privacy Policy |  Contact Us