Dudley Eye 'to return' claim traders after 11,000 visitors take a spin
Organisers of the famous Dudley Eye have spoken of their pride in the big wheel attraction which was taken down last weekend.
During its stay in the town centre, the wheel, known as the DY Eye, attracted more than 11,000 passengers
It generated national interest after being branded the 'worst tourist attraction in Britain' with TV presenter Piers Morgan declaring he could think of 'no grimmer panorama than Dudley'.
But traders in the town had hailed the attraction as a 'roaring success' and its time in the town was extended for another two weeks until last Sunday.
Dave Carter, owner of Arcade Toy Shop, said: "The wheel has been fantastic for the town. We have seen a lot of new customers and also spoken with numerous people who have come back to Dudley for the first time in years.
"Without exception, the feedback we have had has been positive.
"Shortly after Piers Morgan ran down Dudley and the DY Eye, we saw a big increase in footfall and this lead to an increase in trade for us, which has to be a good thing.
"We will be sad to see it go but if we had it all year round it would cease to be a novelty.
"We are, however, hopeful that it will come back next year and allow people to experience the ride again."
"Its really been one in the eye for Piers Morgan, as its been such a roaring success."
The ferris wheel, standing at 114 feet, opened has been in the town since March 12.
Operators said it was the first time they had set up the ride near to a castle and the ride had performed as strongly as at any other places they had visited.
The target was set to have 10,000 people to ride the attraction, but that figure was surpassed to stand at more than 11,000.
Councillor Khurshid Ahmed, said that figure could be closer to 15,000. "Before the ride was extended we had over 11,000, so the final total would be closer to 15,000", he claimed.
"Dudley has been really proud to have the Eye here, it has been a tremendous success.
"It has given the opportunity for local people to enjoy but also further afield. We have visitors from the likes of Somerset and Devon."
"Some of businesses have seen sales increase by 30 per cent seen the Eye has been here."
Len Lenihan, chairman of Dudley Market Traders Ltd, said: "The Dudley Eye has been successful.
One of the main sponsors, Dudley Motor Company, said the response had been absolutely amazing.
"The ride will be coming back next year, we haven't arranged a date in principal but speaking to the operators they are happy to come back," he said.
