Hello all,
Just thought I'd say that I visited BPB over the first weekend this month with the European Coaster Club and the Vikingar (Water Chute) ride was indeed running, save for a very sharp fast final right turn bend after the drop through the water. I did ride it again on the Sunday and the car seemed to brake before the the final right bend after the water. (Maybe someone was in control of the brake that time! - have to say I never noticed).
This was my first visit to the park since 1987, when I first noticed the loss of the classic "Reel" ride. It was very sad to see the Globe Theatre now standing on the ride's former hallowed ground. I very fortunately rode the great attraction in the summer of 1982, its final season. If I'd have only known its pending fate I'm sure I'd have taken a couple more rides at least. May the Reel RIP; let's hope one day it can be reborn.
Going back to the Vikingar, this ride has an air of nostalgia for me as the first version I ever rode was at London's former Battersea Funfair, and later the one at Margate's Dreamland (now sadly no more). It may only be a one-drop ride but I believe it still packs a punch, competing well with today's alternatives. I hope its future survival can be ensured as it is another classic ride.
Also, if anyone is unaware, please can I appeal to anyone interested in preserving historic amusement parks to ensure that they visit Margate's Dreamland and ride the endangered Scenic Railway. The park is threatened with permanent closure this September. (See the linked "Savedreamland" website for info)
Bye for now,
Martin