Blackpool Pleasure Beach investigates Big Dipper stoppage after riders evacuated
All passengers were safely escorted from the historic ride after it came to a stop, with no injuries reported.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach has confirmed that an internal investigation is under way after its iconic Big Dipper rollercoaster came to a standstill, prompting the safe evacuation of riders.
The incident, which occurred at around 2pm on Thursday, July 23, led to speculation on social media, with some users sharing videos and claiming the ride had 'derailed'. Footage appeared to show broken wooden slats between the rails, fuelling further rumours online.
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However, the resort has clarified that the Big Dipper simply came to a stop at a low point on the track. Trained operators manually deboarded all passengers, who were then checked by first aid staff. No injuries were reported.
A spokesperson for Pleasure Beach Resort said: "The Big Dipper came to a stop Thursday July 23, around 2pm, at a very low point in the ride. Following this, a manual deboarding took place with guests guided safely by trained operators. All guests were checked by first aid trained staff, with no injuries reported.
"An internal investigation is taking place to determine the root cause."
The Big Dipper, which opened in 1923, is the oldest operating rollercoaster in the UK and holds Grade II listed status. Designed by John A. Miller and built by the Philadelphia Toboggan Company, the ride is a landmark at the resort, featuring five drops and reaching speeds of up to 56km/h. It was extended in 1934 by Charles Paige and remains a popular attraction for thrill-seekers.
The resort has confirmed that the ride will remain closed while the investigation continues.