Hot air balloons and safari rides among new attractions as Yorkshire's Lightwater Valley reopens

The North Yorkshire theme park, home to Europe's longest roller coaster, is preparing to reopen on Saturday April 17 as coronavirus restrictions are eased.

New features and attractions have been built at the Ripon site while it has been closed during lockdown.

The biggest new attraction is Go Safari - a series of animal-themed rides aimed at under 12s.

Children can step aboard the Savanna Express train to spot dozens of life-sized animals hiding in the grasslands, bounce on the Kangaroo Jump and enjoy a thrill on the Elephant Flight and Monkey Drop rides.

The treetop nets attraction, a net walk through the tree canopy high above the park, has been renamed Treetop Trails and is now included as part of the admission price.

Visitors can take a ride on a hot air balloon and the park will reopen its family favourites such as the Little Dipper, Carousel, Skyrider, the Lady Bird rollercoaster and Splash Falls.

Lightwater Valley manager Colin Bowes said: "It’s wonderful to be able to finally start being able to welcome visitors back again and we have put in place a series of new protocols and guidelines to ensure they can have a great day out in a safe and secure outdoor environment.

"The emphasis is very much on providing a great day out for young families with lots of great new rides and attractions for the under 12s to enjoy."

Lightwater Valley will initially open with reduced capacity to make sure social distancing guidelines are followed.

Staff will carry out extra cleaning on site and queue markers will be in place to help visitors keep a safe distance apart.

All visitors must pre-book tickets online.