Press Cutting – Thousands follow the ‘Eagle’ (1988)

BLACKPOOL GAZETTE

THURSDAY JUNE 23, 1988

Thousands flocked to the £2½ million Avalanche ride, after Eddie Edwards, launched the new jewel in the crown of Blackpool Pleasure Beach yesterday.

Huge queues formed for Britain's first bobsleigh fun run, with people of all ages keen to follow in the "Eagle's" footsteps.

Eddie, who shot to fame at the Winter Olympics, officially opened the new "white knuckle" attraction.

In brilliant sunshine and a blaze of publicity including a giant confetti shower - Eddie hailed the Avalanche as "the biggest and best ride I've ever seen".

As he opened the new ride, members of the British Bobsleigh team zoomed round in the first carriage. TV star Peter Piper and resort civic dignitaries were among guests at the spectacular opening.

Eddie then cut a special Alpine-style cake to mark the opening.

Billed as giving "the free wheelin' feeling", the cars run on a trackless quarter mile of steel chute, reaching speeds of 45mph.

The Avalanche is set to be the biggest crowd puller this summer at the South Shore fun park, which is already Britain's most popular free attraction.