Firework finale as wheel bows out
FESTIVE fireworks will mark the last turn of the Riviera Wheel in Torquay.
But operators and tourism bosses alike are hoping the English Riviera Observation Wheel will be back.
After the success of its first season towering over the Pavilion and lighting up the town's night skies, negotiations are under way for the wheel to come back next year.
To mark their final day and say thank you to their supporters, operators Mellors Group will be holding a free firework display on Sunday at 6pm before heading off for a Christmas season in London.
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The fireworks will be launched from Haldon Pier, Torquay Harbour, and spectators can watch the display from the wheel and Princess Gardens area.
Torbay Mayor Gordon Oliver said: "I'd like to thank the Mellors Group for providing the free display. We have really enjoyed hosting the wheel. It has proved extremely popular and a wonderful addition to the many fantastic attractions the Bay has to offer. It is now moving to London, but we are liaising closely with Mellors Group about the prospect of the wheel's return next year. This would, of course, still be subject to the planning process."
Director James Mellors said: "We would like to say a big thank you to the people of Torbay. We've really enjoyed our stay here. Everyone has made us feel very welcome. Somebody did a drawing of the wheel with a wheelclamp on it because people really love it. We have never had such good feedback. Everywhere we have been people have wanted the wheel to stay. But here we have had people taking the time to write to head office thanking us.
"We have other commitments at the moment, but we are having talks with the Mayor and the council about maybe returning next year. It's not definite at the moment."
He said the wheel is due in Hyde Park until January.
Carolyn Custerson, chief executive of the English Riviera Tourism Company, said: "With such breathtaking views and a spectacular location, the English Riviera Wheel has already become a really welcome addition to the many attractions the Bay has to offer. We look forward to celebrating with them on the evening and hopefully welcoming the wheel back in 2013."
Comments
by RivieraPalms
Monday, November 05 2012, 8:10PM
“Everyone I talked to thought it was great, and although there's always a few like poor reptor that can't be pleased by anything which is truly good for Torquay, unfortunately, I personally would like to thank the Mayor, Councillors, and Wheel Operator's all working together in the way they did, I believe the wheel operated rent free in a deal struck between the two parties and that's what kept the prices so reasonable. It lifted up Torquay in more ways than one, first it lifted us up to a vantage point in the air that we've never experienced before, and secondly it lifted the towns spirits and brought us excitement, showing us something new and the good that can be brought about when people work together. Great to see the council get the value back through good prices and by attracting people in to Torquay which helps local business.
I hope the wheel will return next year and a similar deal can be negotiated. I know the council needs money but a rent free/low price attraction like this can do a lot for the town itself. I believe the price is £12 elsewhere which wouldn't necessarily attract as many people.”
by nicold
Monday, November 05 2012, 6:56PM
“What a contrast to the balloon! Much more popular and better value for money! Look forward to it next year. I have seen the dismantling...it must be such a difficult and time consuming job!”
by omnivore23
Monday, November 05 2012, 8:40AM
“How is this approach to life working out for you reptor?
You only get one you know.”
by Norman_B
Sunday, November 04 2012, 5:51PM
“No pleasing some people.”
by reptor2456
Thursday, November 01 2012, 11:22AM
“Finally this eye sore will be gone. We just need someone to knock down the whole of paignton :-)”