Managing Director Geoffrey Thompson OBE has died aged 67. He went to hospital from a private family function in the Paradise Room on Saturday.
Tributes have been paid from across the industry to a man who led the transformation of the park since taking the reins in 1976. He drove the park forward in his own inimitable style, despite some significant headwinds and increased competition from new leisure activities.
Known for his love of the industry and everything it entails, he pioneered a number of groundbreaking rides and attractions including the Revolution, Europe’s first looping roller coaster, the Big One, the tallest and fastest roller coaster in the world and Valhalla, the largest dark ride ever constructed. Furthermore, as an enthusiastic supporter of live entertainment, he vastly expanded the park’s entertainment offerings and built several new venues.
Away from the Pleasure Beach, he was also instrumental in saving Blackpool’s Grand Theatre and he led the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA).
A statement from the company said the park would remain open this week as planned “as he would have wanted”.