We’ve seen something of a return to normality this year, as we have been gifted the first UK theme park season without COVID-19 restrictions since 2019.
We’ve also had a major new rollercoaster added to the UK’s repertoire in the form of Sik at Flamingo Land.
And more rollercoasters are on the way.
There’s likely to be a hat-trick of additions from Merlin Entertainments, starting next year at Chessington World of Adventures.
Then Thorpe Park will follow with the UK’s tallest (and maybe even fastest) rollercoaster in 2024 before Alton Towers should unveil a mysterious indoor rollercoaster in 2025.
So not only do we have much to be positive about as we have emerged from coronavirus restrictions, the levels of investment seem to have picked up even when compared to normal times.
Let’s keep the enthusiasm levels going as we continue to discuss, debate, critique and study these new investments in the year ahead.
Travelling fairs are also back in full force, as Nottingham Goose Fair returned in elongated form, and the dreadnoughts of Hull Fair and Hyde Park Winter Wonderland also continued with full force.
The travelling showmen and their families are increasingly working through the winter months as festive events become more popular in the UK.
Meanwhile, the superbly-organised Clamshell Awards and all the associated humour have once again put a smile on everyone’s faces after the park main season ended.
As usual, we wanted to thank all of our readers and followers for their interest and support this year. Congratulations also to our award winners and Hall of Fame entrants for 2022.
We wish you, your families, friends and loved ones a very happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year.
-RR