Europe’s first Ben 10 roller coaster coming to Drayton Manor Theme Park

Ben 10, the smash-hit cartoon hero, is set to make the award-winning Drayton Manor Theme Park, near Tamworth, Staffordshire, his new home.

In a move that will delight tens of thousands of youngsters, Europe’s first ever Ben 10 roller coaster ride will open at Drayton Manor for Easter 2011, following an exclusive deal between the park and Turner CN Enterprises, the brand’s licensor.

Ben 10 is a hugely popular children’s programme, broadcast on Cartoon Network, which follows the adventures of 10-year-old Ben Tennyson, who is able to turn into a variety of alien superheroes, each with unique powers, thanks to his mysterious Omnitrix watch.

The exciting new roller coaster will be part of an amazing Cartoon Network Street, which will include a fully branded restaurant and shop, selling Ben 10 merchandise and products relating to other shows on Cartoon Network.

Children and their parents will get to revel in the world of Ben 10 even before they get on the ride with queue entertainment. Full details of the ride will be unveiled closer to the launch.

Colin Bryan, Managing Director of Drayton Manor Theme Park, said: “Drayton Manor has a reputation for firsts. We opened Europe’s first Thomas Land£ in 2008, and we have Europe’s first stand up rollercoaster (Shockwave), as well as the world’s first stand up tower drop ride (Apocalypse).

“Drayton Manor first opened to the public in 1950. Over the past 61 years we have always invested in first class rides and attractions to ensure our visitors have the best possible day out. This is why I am confident that this new Ben 10 themed rollercoaster will be an amazing and popular addition to the park.”

Turner CN Enterprises’ UK Licensing Director Graham Saltmarsh said: “We’re thrilled to be launching a Ben 10 roller coaster ride in the UK, which quite literally is set to take the brand to new heights! It’s very much in line with the action and excitement that fans associate with their hero and a fantastic profile-raising event, which enables us to create another touch point for Ben 10 fans to interact with their favourite character.”

Drayton Manor, the UK’s biggest independently owned theme park, welcomes over 1.2 million visitors every year.

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