NEWS FROM ALTON TOWERS

LOVE IS A ROLLERCOASTER
Alton Towers Resort launches the world’s fastest date

Adrenaline junkies tired of the old fashioned dinner date can rejoice today as the Alton Towers Resort announces it is launching a “speed dating” service across its Theme Park – hailed as the world’s fastest date.

Those looking for a spontaneous date with a difference will be able to enjoy the newest twist on conventional speed dating concept by making use of special ‘singles’ queue lines introduced to many of its big rollercoasters including Rita – Queen of Speed and Spinball Whizzer. Willing singles will be paired up at the ride entrance and enjoy a first date at speeds of up to 100kph with a force of 4.7G lasting just 49 seconds.

The move comes as research by DatingDirect.com predicts the demise of the traditional dinner date in favour of less conventional ways to impress. One in five (21 per cent) of its members actually admit to feeling less pressure and enjoying dates more when they know there is a set time limit.

The trend also reflects the rise of a more confident single who is looking for dates who share their own sense of adventure, fun and spontaneity.

Relationship expert and spokesperson for DatingDirect.com, Dr Cecilia d’Felice said, “Taking a theme park ride has all the qualities of going on that first date: excitement, uncertainty, novelty and of course, adrenaline. The combination of a high endorphin rush and the production of adrenaline brought on by rides makes for a heady mixture, which is perfect for the first date. The flow of these chemicals almost guarantees to increase levels of attraction between singles and put them in the mood for romance even after the ride is over.”

Morwenna Angove, Sales and Marketing Director at the Alton Towers Resort said “We pride ourselves on offering our visitors the ultimate day out or short break, and have an amazing combination of adrenalin-inducing rides and attractions. We’re confident that combining such thrilling experiences with the added exhilaration of meeting a potential new partner will ensure the most memorable date ever!”

The pilot scheme will run throughout September. For the best ticket deals, visit www.altontowers.com

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For further information and images, please contact Frank PR on 0207 693 6999 / 07946069051or email altontowers@frankpr.it



Notes to editors:



The Alton Towers Resort dating service will be open to those over 18 years old only
About Alton Towers

· Alton Towers Theme Park voted Consumers Favourite UK Theme Park Attraction – British Travel Awards 2007

· The Alton Towers Hotel was voted Best UK Family Hotel by the Mother & Baby Magazine Survey, August 2007.

· Alton Towers Theme Park voted Consumers Favourite UK Theme Park Attraction – British Travel Awards 2007

· The MERLIN ENTERTAINMENTS GROUP is the leading name in location based, family entertainment, which has seen the most successful and dynamic growth of any company in the sector over the last five years. The world’s second largest visitor attraction operator, Merlin has 58 attractions, 6 hotels and 2 holiday villages in 13 countries, across 3 continents. The company aims to deliver memorable and rewarding experiences to its 35 million visitors worldwide, through its iconic global and local brands, and the commitment and passion of its managers and 13,500 employees. Merlin Entertainments operates the following attractions – SEA LIFE including the SEA LIFE London Aquarium, Madame Tussauds, LEGOLAND, the London Eye, Dungeons, Gardaland, LEGOLAND Discovery Centres, Alton Towers Resort, Warwick Castle, THORPE PARK, Chessington World of Adventures & Zoo, Heide Park, and Earth Explorer

About DatingDirect.com

· DatingDirect.com, polled over 1,000 of its members about modern day dating in early 2009