No toilets were closed Bob. There were four next to the roller skating, a block just outside, and a whole bank of portaloos near the main stage. Two us us made good use of the various facilities throughout the day.
Dreamland had a well planned opening ceremony, which began not long after 10 am and those of us in the crowd could hear what was happening, with local dignitaries (Mayor included, in full regalia) and others making speeches, including Nick who paid tribute to the campaign, rep from Heritage Lottery Fund, council etc. Several people helped with the ribbon cutting, including descendants of Sanger, and a former Scenic brakeman, George Wright, 1946, who is in his nineties. I was honoured to have a few words with him later and he gave me the OK to take his photo.
About 40 secs in is George Wright
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-33203711I'm sure Nick can fill us in on all of these people, their histories and how contact was made, and of course there had to be an opening ceremony. I didn't hear anyone in the crowd moaning about it.
Once the ribbon was cut, at around 11 am, and we streamed under the Scenic, we were given flags, sung to by a local school choir, entertainers were cheering us in... it was a party atmosphere.
As for the rides, what rubbish you talk again. Who is paying £20? No-one. I paid less than £15 for admission and rides, hey I'm 'people', and there were plenty open. Punch and Judy, Wall of Death, entertainment, the works. I spent a full day at Dreamland, enjoyed the rides, the atmosphere and simply exploring the place. No shambles at all, well organised and maybe it's time to stop trolling? It's really getting boring now.
You weren't there were you? I was and can prove it. Mine and himself's pic is on the BBC website news story, in the crowd.
I hardy think Clacton Pier, delightful though I'm sure it is, compares with Dreamland.
Ferengi Rules of Acquisition: Rule 76. Every once in a while, declare peace. It confuses the hell out of your enemies.