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First look at Alton Towers' new Gangsta Granny ride opening in May

Alton Towers has revealed the first images of its newest attraction – Gangsta Granny: The Ride, due to open later this year.

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The Gangsta Granny ride, based on David Walliams' best-selling book, is due to open in May

The family ride, which is planned to launch on Monday, May 17, brings to life David Walliams' most popular children's novel Gangsta Granny.

The Gangsta Granny ride, based on David Walliams' best-selling book, is due to open in May

The new multi-sensory ride experience will see guests join the main characters as they attempt the greatest heist in the history of the world – to steal the Crown Jewels.

The new images released by the Staffordshire-based theme park show the journey guests will take from the moment they step on the Royal Carriage through to a sneak peek of the 3D projection-mapping and animation inspired by the artwork of Tony Ross, as well as the Gangsta Granny-themed bedrooms in the Alton Towers Hotel.

One of the Gangsta Granny-themed rooms at Alton Towers Hotel

Riders will board a Royal Carriage as they set off on a tour of London's Crown Jewels only to be swept up in Ben and Granny's escapade. The ride will whiz, twist and spin through the sewers on a 360-degree special effect laden ride to break into the Crown Jewels vault.

Passengers will be able to see, feel, hear and even smell the retelling of the Gangsta Granny story. Guests will descend with Ben and Granny into the sewers, be chased through the streets of London and even come face-to-face with the Queen.

The Gangsta Granny ride, based on David Walliams' best-selling book, is due to open in May

As well as the new ride, a whole area of Alton Towers will be transformed – inspired by the World of David Walliams, with a host of other rides and attractions.

Guests will be able to visit Raj's Shop, race on a regal thoroughbred on the Royal Carousel, bounce away on Raj's Bouncy Bottom Burp, as well as other attractions.

A new area of Alton Towers has been transformed - inspired by the World of David Walliams

Comedian, actor and best-selling author David Walliams said: "I can’t wait for Gangsta Granny: The Ride to finally come to life and open its doors to families.

“The latest images really showcase the amazing production behind the ride and it’s a real delight to see my characters brought to life."

Gangsta Granny was first published in 2011 and was David Walliams' first children's number one best-seller – staying at the top of the Sunday Times top ten for 24 weeks. The book has also been adapted for the stage by the Birmingham Stage Company, and a television adaptation was commissioned by the BBC in 2013 and first aired on Boxing Day that year starring Miranda Hart, Rob Brydon, David Walliams and Joanna Lumley.

Alton Towers is set to welcome guests back through its gates from Monday, April 12, under the Government's roadmap out of lockdown. For more information, or to book tickets, visit www.altontowers.com.

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