ALTON Towers founder John Broome has died aged 80.
The businessman grew the theme park from humble beginnings to one of Europe’s biggest – attracting 2.3 million visitors last year.
A statement from his firm Imperial Corporate Capital read: “John was not just a colleague; he was a visionary and a pioneer whose far-reaching impact on the tourism industry is renowned.
“His loss leaves a void that will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of working with him.”
John first made inroads into the tourism industry in 1973 when he bought a concession to run a train ride through the grounds of the Alton Towers estate.
After marrying manager’s Denis Bradshaw’s daughter Jane, John – who had made his millions in property – founded the Staffordshire theme park in 1980.
The millionaire later introduced the revolutionary Corkscrew rollercoaster to Alton Towers, which changed the face of UK tourist attractions.
Over the following decades, Alton Towers grew to incorporate a water park, spa, mini golf and hotel complex.
Considered a “visionary” of the UK tourism industry, John went on to found Camel Creek Resort in Cornwall.
He sold the park to the Tussauds Group in 1990.
Alton Towers is open from mid-March to early November but its hotels are open year-round.
