Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Alton Towers closes water park after guests report 'irritation of eyes and throat'

'All affected guests are being offered medical treatment', park spokersperson says

Vincent Wood
Monday 02 March 2020 12:32 EST
Comments
The attraction, owned by Merlin, said it took the step at about 1pm because "a small number of people" had reported feeling unwell
The attraction, owned by Merlin, said it took the step at about 1pm because "a small number of people" had reported feeling unwell (Rex Features)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Alton Towers has closed its water park after almost 40 guests, including a number of children, said their eyes and throat had become irritated in the Staffordshire amusement park.

The attraction, owned by Merlin, said it took the step at about 1pm because "a small number of people" had reported feeling unwell.

Emergency service official raced to the scene, while an air ambulance was dispatched to offer support.

However after 39 people were assessed, including 6 children, all were found to require no further treatment.

An Alton Towers Resort spokesperson added: “The Fire Brigade, WMAS and Staffordshire Police attended the resort, as is standard for any site where chemicals are used.

"39 people, including 6 children, were assessed by medical staff but all have been discharged with no treatment required.

"We are helping the Fire Brigade with their ongoing investigation.”

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service said it was called to the site at about 1.50pm after reports of both staff and guests "with irritation to the eyes and throat".

A fire service spokesman said crews were "carrying out an assessment".

Staffordshire Police confirmed their officers attended after being alerted at 1.45pm by West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS).

The water park is expected to remain closed until Wednesday. The main theme park, which can see two million pass through its gates in a year, is due to open at the end of the month following the winter break.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in