I've never been to either park (well, Kursaal after it had been closed for years and rides taken out), but I can offer you a small bit of information about "Laff in the Dark" rides. These were one of Harry Traver's rides (like Turtle Chase and those notorious woodies). It was his version of a ghost train. Basically, I think it involved going through the dark, banging through doors, loud noises etc... probably just your cup of tea!
The Laff In The Dark also had the Traver 'Trick Track'
Its been along time since I have seen the show so I am unsure on some rides. I'll offer background info on both parks.
The Rotor (Millennium Bug/Round Up type ride)
Battersea Park had the biggest version built by Orton & Spooner. It was also the last version built by firm based in Burton On Trent.
The River Caves
This was definetly filmed at Southend.
A roller coaster situated next to a watersplash (Think BPB's Vikingar)
This was the Water Chute at Battersea. Was the car goes up the lift hill you can see much of the parkk in the background including the Big Dipper. Southend also had one.
After Battersea closed the Water Chute remained and opened on Bank Holidays for a few years.
A Paratrooper
Don't know where this is filmed at. Battersea definetly had one and its likly Southend did.
Ghost Train
Possibly Southend?
A vintage carousel
Both Parks had a Galloper but not had a carousel! The one in the Prisinor was based at Southend. The Southend set had fewer steps and normal and was set in the ground.
An octopus
Both parks had one of these at some point.
A Swirl (Think Southport's Black Hole before the powers that be put a cover over it and turned it into a "dark ride")
Southend definetl;y had one, a German version which has a much higher roof than the English version. Battersea is also likly to have had one at some point.
I understand this ride is now traveling in the London section? I know the version traveling is German but unsure if its the same machine.
Aeroplanes that turned in a circle like Hurricain Jets but also turned upside down whilst going around..
Definetly Southend. this is now own by non guild showmen and can be seen traveling the the south.
A Boxing Booth!!!!!..(methinks that this didn't really exist but it was integral to the episode)[/quote]
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