Dudley Zoo's historic ride preparing to 'relaunch for Easter holidays' as it 'undergoes final checks'

Dudley Zoo announced today (Friday 13 March) that it is preparing to relaunch its popular chairlift for Easter. 

The ride is currently undergoing its routine service with its mechanics, chairs and ropes being assessed.

The lift began operating at the zoo in 1958, charging passengers sixpence each to board one of the 41 chairs.

The chairlift was first opened by comic Richard Hearne. He played the madcap character Mr Pastry and John Price and was one of the first to ride it.

Users must be at least seven years old to board the chairlift and measure at least 1.2m in height.

Families get panoramic views of the borough from the top of Castle Hill before gliding down 125ft on chairs attached to a cable.

Dudley Zoo said on Facebook: "Our popular chairlift is undergoing final checks as we prepare to relaunch for Easter. The ride is currently undergoing its routine service as we assess the mechanics, chairs and ropes.

"We hope to have it up and running in time for the forthcoming school holidays."

One user commented on the post sharing their memory of the ride. The user said: "Years ago we took our two sons there. We went up on the chair lift only to see my youngest son going back down.

"He hadn't got off when we had. Caught him when he came back up."

Since opening its doors in May 1937, Dudley Zoo has brought people flocking to the town, quickly becoming a jewel in the Black Country's crown.

The 11th century Dudley Castle is located at the heart of the zoological gardens and it is considered one of the most haunted castles in the UK.