Venue: Blackpool Pleasure Beach
Who Went: Me and a large number of other RCCGB members, including Andy and Christine Hine, Adam Brown, Adrian and Katelyn Hikin, Alan Chilvers, Alan Hunt, Andy and Mary Knight, Barry Frost, Big Stevie B, Carol Hedges, Craig Smith, Dave Perry, Death, Debra Boggis, Doug and Charlie Turner, Gary, Liberty and Ellis Williams, Happy Helen, Heather Hall, Kelly Cameron, Lorraine Downing, Lorraine Pratchett, Lorraine White, Mark and Margo Lewis, Matt Walker, Maz Nixon, Paul Bailey, Peter, Laura and Aiden O'Brien, Planenut, Robin Antill, Ryan Hackett, Sophia Jones, Steven Caine.
DISCLAIMER: The above is NOT intended to be an exhaustive list of everyone who attended. It's a small sample of attendees; mainly those who performed billed or Gong Show acts Saturday night, and/or who I spoke to / rode with over the weekend. I sincerely apologise to anyone else who was there and I've not listed. Not all attendees (whether or not listed above) attended the event in its entirety.
Introduction
The Club's annual UK mega-trip to start the new coaster season. Once again the Blackpool Bash was a great success, with two professional entertainers performing Friday evening, a day of riding Saturday daytime (including the morning ERS), a circus themed fancy dress party with songs, games, the Gong Show and a disco Saturday evening, and another ERS Sunday morning. A great turnout too with around 400 members from all over the UK (my list above is just a handful of them). I was determined as ever to attend the Blackpool Bash, and to take part in the Gong Show Saturday evening.To make the rest of this report easier to read, I've split it into sections. Click the applicable link below to jump to the section you want to read:
Thursday 9 April
Day One - Friday 10 April
Day Two - Saturday 11 April (daytime)
Day Two - Saturday 11 April (evening)
Day Three - Sunday 12 April
Outro
Enjoy my report at your leisure.
Thursday 9 April
Getting To Blackpool
I travelled to Blackpool by train Thursday 9 April. My journey from Bath Spa to Blackpool North, which required four trains, began on the 12:00 train from Bath Spa to Bristol Temple Meads. From there my journey continued aboard the 13:21 train to Newport (Gwent), followed by the 14:19 train to Stockport (via the Hereford line) and finally the 17:13 train to Blackpool North. Having finally reached Blackpool North at 19:08 I walked to the nearby bus stop opposite Wilko, hoping to catch a bus to somewhere near Withnell Road. During the 20 minutes or so I waited there numerous buses turned up, none of which were going near there. Eventually I walked to the seafront and caught the 19:49 tram from North Pier to South Pier. Having finally reached South Pier at 20:00, I had just a short walk to my pre-booked hotel, where I checked in for three nights. It was the same hotel, close to Pleasure Beach Resort, which I stayed at 2008 to 2014 inclusive.Thursday Evening
Having checked into my hotel I went to The Auctioneer (Wetherspoons) for an evening meal. My first concern when I got there at 20:36 was whether or not I'd still be able to get food. Thankfully food was available there until 23:00. Since it was Curry Club night, I decided to have a Curry Club meal. For main course I chose large Chicken Jalfrezi, which included basmati rice, one puppodum, one naan, one vegetable samosa and one onion bhaji. A drink was included, I chose 1 pint of John Smiths Extra Smooth. For an additional fee I was able to add any dessert from the main menu, I chose British Bramley apple crumble with custard. After 22:00 I returned to my hotel and relaxed in my room the rest of the evening.Back to the top
Day One - Friday 10 April
Daytime
Travelling Thursday afternoon gained me a day in Blackpool. For me Friday began with a delicious breakfast: cereal (I chose cornflakes), a glass of orange juice, a full English breakfast, four triangles of toast and a pot of coffee. I spent the day at Sandcastle Water Park, and was in the pool / slides area from approximately 10:45 until closing time of 18:00. A separate report about my day there is available here. After leaving Sandcastle Water Park I returned to my hotel to relax for about half an hour.Early Evening
Around 19:10 I went to Pablo's Fish and Chips for a Pablo's Special, i.e. fish, chips, mushy peas, bread and butter, plus fizzy drink. Fish and chips are a must-have in Blackpool. When I finished my fish and chips, I had a strawberry Sundae Special for dessert. Having left Pablo's I went straight to the Paradise Room.Friday Fun
The Blackpool Bash officially began when the Paradise Room doors opened. Around 20:00 I entered the Paradise Room via the spiral stairs at Noah's Ark end. Food was available to buy, but I didn't buy any as I'd just eaten. Upon entry to the Paradise Room I went straight to the bar and bought myself half a Kingstone Press Cider. Whilst looking for somewhere to sit, I noticed Happy Helen and Sophia Jones sitting together. Since there was another vacant seat on that table I sat next to them.Andy's Welcome
The fun really began when Andy Hine appeared around 20:15 and said his annual catchphrase "Everybody say Blackpool", followed by his introduction. Next he called another member on stage with whom to perform a trick. Once he had completed that trick, it was time for the first official act of the night.Act 1: Billy Hunter
The first official act was from Billy Hunter, who entered the stage at 20:47. He amused the audience with various songs and jokes. These included an Elvis Presley song, clocking in and out, a mother and baby sketch (accompanied by the song "Three Little Fishes" being played in the background) and the James Bond theme. These were interspersed by three phone calls. Towards the end he and his assistants brought a coffin on stage; Billy sang "I Feel Good" whilst standing inside the coffin.Interval
At 21:27 Billy Hunter left the stage and Nev reappeared. He said Wendy Evans was going to perform some songs at this point, but due to last minute unforeseen circumstances she was unable to attend. Without further ado the 20 minute interval began. During this time I bought myself half an orange juice and lemonade. Nev reappeared at 21:47 to introduce the second act of the night, Steve Royle.Act 2: Steve Royle
At 21:49 Steve Royle began his performance. His act was similar, comprising mainly songs and jokes. Early on he divided the audience into three groups, one group was asked to make baa sounds, another had to make quack sounds and the other had to make woof sounds. That done, he asked the audience to sing the chorus of "Good King Wenceslas" solely by means of baa, quack and woof sounds; he pointed to the correct group to make the applicable animal sound at the correct time. I joined in when it was my group's turn. The whole chorus went surprisingly well, even though it was the wrong time of year for a Christmas song!Afterwards Steve made a series of jokes about continental quilts. Later he sang a parody of Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious. His act ended with the past Eurovision song "Volare", during which he juggled small balls from his mouth (presumably by blowing on them), and then used his hands to juggle small guitars followed by full sized guitars.
Drinking Up Time
When Steve finished performing at 22:46, Nev announced that Friday Fun was over. There was still time to finish our drinks, but we had to be out by 23:00. I spoke to, and had my picture taken with a few other members before heading back to my hotel for the night. At 23:00 Nev made a microphone announcement asking people to leave as soon as possible.Altogether a reasonable evening of entertainment to start the Blackpool Bash, though from my experience of attending the Blackpool Bash from 2008 to 2015 inclusive, I've seen better Friday Fun entertainment previous years. The best bit was speaking to other members of the Club face to face at various times of the evening, including Happy Helen and Sophia Jones on my table. Many members liked my self-designed "I am 13" T-shirt, which I originally had printed for my 43rd birthday last September, and which some members saw me wear during Loopathon day 2 (Drayton Manor) last October.
Back to the top
Day Two - Saturday 11 April (daytime)
First Thing
Having awoke at 6:50 I put on my sapphire blue "I'm Not An Adult I'm A Big Kid" T-shirt. I asked for an early breakfast at 8:00 so that I could be at the Paradise Room at 9:00 or soon after. My breakfast consisted of cereal (I chose cornflakes), a glass of orange juice, a full English breakfast, four triangles of toast and a pot of coffee.Initial Meet-Up
Members were asked to meet in the Paradise Room around 9:00. I entered via the spiral stairs at Noah's Ark end of the building. To save having to return to my hotel early evening, I took everything I needed for the evening (camcorder and tripod, clown outfit, circus programmes etc.) in my large bag, and placed it in a dressing room back stage. Shortly afterwards I queued to be issued with my ride wristband and Park Pass. However there was no meal or drink voucher for lunch handed out at this stage.Morning ERS
The day was originally billed to start with a one-hour ERS on Big One, Nickelodeon Streak and Blue Flyer. Due to the strong winds it was not possible to run the Big One, so the staff operated Infusion instead of Big One. Thankfully the two wooden coasters Nickelodeon Streak and Blue Flyer were able to operate. Initially all RCCGB members, including me, gathered by Wallace & Gromit's Thrill-O-Matic for a series of group photos. Afterwards members headed for their chosen coaster (Infusion, Nickelodeon Streak or Blue Flyer).Infusion
I started the day on Infusion. This Vekoma SLC (689m Standard) inverted steel coaster originally operated as Traumatizer at Pleasureland Southport from 1999 to 5 Sep 2006. Since 2 May 2007 it has been operating as Infusion at Pleasure Beach Resort Blackpool. Its 689 metre (2260' 6" ) track length explains its model name. The train climbed the lift hill to a maximum height of 109' 3" (33.3 m), descended the first drop and went around a vertical loop followed by many more thrilling features. I enjoyed five goes on Infusion as follows: seat 10, seat 16 (back), seat 15 (back), seat 2 (front), seat 12. Each time the queue was very short, which suggested to me the majority of RCCGB members must have begun the day on the two wooden coasters in Nickelodeon Land.After my fifth go on Infusion the time was 10:27, so I walked across to Nickelodeon Streak to try and get some goes on that during the remainder of the ERS.
Nickelodeon Streak
This classic woodie was built by Charles Paige and was originally called Roller Coaster from 1933 to 2010. Early 2011 it was repainted orange and re-themed Nickelodeon Streak, as part of Nickelodeon Land. With a maximum height of 61' (18.6 m) Nickelodeon Streak is surprisingly taller than Big Dipper (60' or 18.3 m). The queue for this was much longer than for Infusion. Whilst queuing I put on my "Coaster Crazy Kid on Tour" pink hi-vis waistcoat for the other members to see. Eventually I got on and sat in the back row. Due to the long queue I limited myself to one go. In fact, by the time I had completed my go on Nickeldeon Streak, the RCCGB ERS was over.Morning Free Time
After the morning ERS ended, members spread themselves around the Pleasure Beach and took over the rides. I kept my "Coaster Crazy Kid on Tour" pink hi-vis waistcoat on most of the rest of the morning.Blue Flyer
Although the ERS had now ended, I wanted to ride Blue Flyer next anyway. This wooden coaster (built by Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters, Inc.) originally operated as Zipper Dipper from 1934 to 2010. At the start of 2011 it was repainted blue and re-themed as Blue Flyer, part of Nickelodeon Land. Although the resort's smallest wooden coaster, it was great fun. I enjoyed one go in the front row followed by one go in the back row.Backyardigans Pirate Treasure
This was introduced as part of Nickelodeon Land in 2011. It consists of boats on spokes, which travel around a clockwise circle. Along the way there are undulations, presumably to simulate waves at sea. The lady operating this ride liked my "Coaster Crazy Kid on Tour" pink hi-vis waistcoat. I sat in boat 4. Another mild ride, but worth one go to increase my cumulative count to-date on it. This was my only go on here all day.Diego's Rainforest Rescue
Another ride introduced as part of Nickelodeon Land in 2011, a set of balloons around a tower. I got into basket number 7. The balloons began travelling around the tower. Shortly afterwards the set of balloons rose to the tower top where they continued travelling around the tower high up. Eventually the balloon cluster descended to ground level and the ride completely stopped. This was my only go on Diego's Rainforest Rescue all day.Fairy World Taxi Spin
This was also introduced as part of Nickelodeon Land in 2011 and features taxis on the ends of spokes. If you are sitting in the front seat you can press a button to make the taxi go up. The taxi is lowered when the button is released. I got into the back seat of taxi number 5, which meant I was unable to press the button; thankfully two other riders sat in the front seat of the same car and pressed the button. Although a tame ride, it was worth one go increase my cumulative count on it to-date. This was my only go on Fairy World Taxi Spin all day.Big Dipper
My third wooden coaster of the morning, I certainly did well with wooden coaster riding Saturday morning. This sit down wooden coaster was built by Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters, Inc. and has been operating since 1923. I sat in the back row. The train set off around the bend, through the tunnel, around another bend, up the lift hill, around another bend, down the first drop and over all the subsequent undulations out and back to the station. Altogether an exciting ride, with plenty of AIRtime. For now I only had one go on Big Dipper, which ended up being my only go on this all day. This was my final ride before lunch.Lunch At Paradise Room
At this point I left the Pleasure Beach to go to the Paradise Room for lunch. As soon as I got there at 12:43 I was handed my drinks voucher, which I exchanged for a Pepsi at the bar. Next I went to get my meal. The lunch menu had changed from previous years; this time members had a choice of beefburger in a bun or hot dog as the main item. I had a beefburger in a bun, with chips and self-service salad. Having left the serving table most of the seats were taken, but after some searching I managed to find an empty seat at one table. During lunch Nev gave a speech. After he finished, a member of Pleasure Beach staff gave a speech about various items including the forthcoming Red Arrows ride. Club merchandise was available, but I didn't even look at it let alone buy anything this time.Afternoon Free Time
Around 14:15 I returned to the Pleasure Beach, eager to continue riding. Much of the afternoon I proudly wore my "Coaster Crazy Kid on Tour" pink hi-vis waistcoat around the Pleasure Beach, albeit intermittently. I was going to start with Ice Blast, but its long queue put me off. Flying Machines was now running, but its queue tailed back the bottom of the steps. Thankfully the queue for Derby Racer was minimal so I decided to start with Derby Racer.Derby Racer
A giant version of galloping horses. Although not a particularly thrilling ride, it was nonetheless great fun, and could be seen as a gentle ride to start with after eating. My one go on this now ended up being my only go on it all day.Flying Machines
The queue for Flying Machines was now a bit shorter, so I decided to ride this next. I ended up riding in plane GT10. The planes start going anticlockwise close to the platform, and are gradually angled further outwards. At the maximum extent you are sitting at a fairly steep angle. Eventually the planes head back inwards, until you're back with the platform. This was my only go on Flying Machines all day.Grand National
Previous years the RCCGB has had a one-hour ERS on Grand National late afternoon on the Saturday of the Blackpool Bash weekend, but that wasn't going to happen this year. Nonetheless I was determined to ride it anyway Saturday afternoon, particularly as the famous Grand National horse race was due to take place at Aintree that afternoon. This classic twin track Möbius racing wooden coaster was built by Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters, Inc. and has been operating since 1935. According to the RCDB, its maximum height of 62' (18.9 m) makes it the tallest of the five wooden coasters at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, but only the third tallest currently operating wooden coaster in the UK. Due to the way the coaster is designed, on one go you depart from one platform and return to the station on the opposite platform. The platform you depart from at the start of your ride dictates which lift hill (left or right facing upwards) your train ascends. Doing a complete circuit of the track back to where you get on would require two consecutive goes without getting off in between. Consequently you could class this coaster as two coasters. Coaster-Count classes it as two coasters; whereas Ride Count classes the whole thing as one coaster. The greatest fun of this racing coaster is hoping that the train you travel in will be the first past the winning post. I enjoyed two goes as follows.First go (left lift hill): I sat in the maroon train which climbed the left lift hill. Opponent red train on the right lift hill. The red train won and the maroon train which I was on lost.
Second go (right lift hill): I sat in the green train which climbed the right lift hill. Opponent blue train on the left lift hill. The green train, which I was on, won.
Thus my train lost on my first go and won on my second go. A fair result I suppose.
River Caves
My next ride was River Caves. This boat ride was almost walk-on when I got there. I got into boat 10, which sailed through a series of chambers, each with a different scene. One chamber featured dinosaurs, another chamber featured stalagmites and stalactites. Towards the end, my boat went uphill, along the outdoor section (which you can see from the path) and down a drop, to create a splash. This was my only go on here all day.Wallace & Gromit's Thrill-O-Matic
This first opened soon after the RCCGB Blackpool Bash 2013, and therefore I first rode this during the RCCGB Blackpool Bash 2014. Being as I spent so much time finding the official (main) Gromit sculptures and mini Gromit sculptures around Bristol and beyond summer during summer 2013, I was determined to ride this. The ride car went around a circuit through several rooms, featuring elements from the films including the space ship and crackers from "A Grand Day Out" and techno trousers from "The Wrong Trousers". Along the way I saw Shaun the sheep and Feathers the penguin, as well as Wallace & Gromit. This was my only go on this ride all day.Dora's World Voyage
A boat ride introduced as part of Nickelodeon Land in 2011. I got into a boat which sailed around the canal start to finish through different zones: France, Russia, Tanzania and China. A song was played on the boat, repeatedly mentioning "Hello" in the applicable language, e.g. Bonjour in France. Obviously the words changed at the zone transitions. My one go now was my only ride on here all day.Avalanche
This Mack Rides Bobsled coaster has been operating at Blackpool Pleasure Beach since 22 June 1988, the same year as the RCCGB started. According to the RCDB, it is one of five coasters of this model currently operating worldwide. Avalanche has a track length of 1490' (454.2 m) and no inversions. Seated in the back row, I remained quiet and totally relaxed for the entire journey. As far as I'm concerned, it's not scary at all; more a gentle rest ride. My one go now was my only go on here all day.Revolution
This Arrow Dynamics Launched Loop sit down steel coaster has been operating at Blackpool Pleasure Beach since 1979. According to the RCDB, this is one of three coasters of this type operating worldwide. This one was originally called Revolution from 1979 to sometime in the 1990s. From then until 2011 it was called Irn-Bru Revolution. Early 2012 the orange structure was repainted grey and the ride reverted to its original name Revolution. The train set off, went downhill, around the vertical loop, uphill and along a flat section where it suddenly ground to an abrupt halt. After a brief pause, the train went backwards through the loop until it was back at the station. Wow, a fast and thrilling ride, but I'm not sure whether going forwards or backwards was better. Due to the queuing time, and my desire to go on other rides afterwards, I limited myself to one go on Revolution.Steeplechase
So far I still hadn't ridden Steeplechase, which seemed strange because this has been included in the RCCGB morning ERS past years, but wasn't the case this time. Therefore I was determined to ride it during my remaining time in the Pleasure Beach. This Arrow Dynamics Special Coaster Systems steel coaster has been operating at Blackpool Pleasure Beach since 1977. There are three separate tracks, completely independent of each other, which is why Steeplechase is sometimes regarded as three separate coasters. Coaster-Count classes it as three coasters, whereas Ride Count classes the three tracks as one coaster. Each track has individual horses as ride cars, and each horse can seat two riders. All three lanes were running, so I was determined to re-ride all three tracks. However it is possible to have just one or two tracks running. The best thing about this coaster is its racing element, hoping to be first home. I had three goes as follows:First go:I rode horse number 1 on the red track. Unfortunately the horse on the green track won.
Second go: I rode a horse (whose number I forgot to note) on the yellow track. This horse was the slowest of all and the horses on the other two tracks finished before me.
Third go: I rode horse 7 on the green track. The horse on the red track won.
Grand Prix
A car ride, whereby the cars run on what resembles a giant Scalextric track. I sat in one of the cars, and was taken down the spiral (like in a multi-storey car park), towards Big One and back, then up the spiral back to the station. Depending on your take of things, you could perhaps class it as a coaster, considering it has ride cars which run on a track, that spiral down and uphill. What do you think? Coaster or not coaster? Although quite a tame ride really, it was worth riding to say I'd been on it this trip. I only had one go on this, which turned out to be my final ride for Saturday.The time was now 18:40. As I walked past Wild Mouse, I noticed its queue was now quite short. However I resisted my temptation to have a go on it as I felt it was in my best interest to leave and go to the Paradise Room now for a rehearsal.
Summary of my day in order of activity
Morning ERS: Infusion 5, Nickelodeon Streak 1
Blue Flyer 2
Backyardigans Pirate Treasure 1
Diego's Rainforest Rescue 1
Fairy World Taxi Spin 1
Big Dipper 1
Lunch at Paradise Room
Derby Racer 1
Flying Machines 1
Grand National 2 (left lift hill, right lift hill)
River Caves 1
Wallace & Gromit's Thrill-O-Matic 1
Dora's World Voyage 1
Avalanche 1
Revolution 1
Steeplechase 3 (red 1, yellow 1, green 1)
Grand Prix 1
Cumulative Summary of My Rides (ERSs and Free Time Combined)
| Ride | Total |
| Avalanche | 1 |
| Backyardigans Pirate Treasure | 1 |
| Big Dipper | 1 |
| Blue Flyer | 2 |
| Derby Racer | 1 |
| Diego's Rainforest Rescue | 1 |
| Dora's World Voyage | 1 |
| Fairy World Taxi Spin | 1 |
| Flying Machines | 1 |
| Grand National | 2 |
| Grand Prix | 1 |
| Infusion | 5 |
| Nickelodeon Streak | 1 |
| Revolution | 1 |
| River Caves | 1 |
| Steeplechase | 3 |
| Wallace & Gromit's Thrill-O-Matic | 1 |
| TOTAL | 25 |
Altogether a great day's riding, and best of all it was sunny all day, albeit windy. It's a pity the strong wind during the morning ERS meant that Big One could not operate during that time, but nonetheless I still had just as much fun riding the substitute coaster Infusion during that time. Although Big One finally opened late afternoon, when it did its queue quickly became very long which put me off riding it. Hence I ended up not riding Big One all day. As for the wooden coasters, I rode Nickelodeon Streak, Blue Flyer, and Big Dipper before lunch and both lift hills of Grand National after lunch. The only wooden coaster I missed was Wild Mouse, which was a pity as I was hoping to ride all five wooden coasters in one day. Looking back, after I finished riding Steeplechase, I ought to have queued for Wild Mouse instead of Grand Prix, and thus made Wild Mouse my final ride of the day. I wouldn't have minded missing Grand Prix as much as missing Wild Mouse. Wearing my "Coaster Crazy Kid on Tour" pink hi-vis waistcoat around the Pleasure Beach much of the day also added to the fun.
Back to the top
Day Two - Saturday 11 April (evening)
Coaster Crazy Show
Having left the Pleasure Beach I walked straight to the ground floor of the Casino Tower, whereupon I showed my Back Stage Pass as proof that I was taking part in the Coaster Crazy Show. Knowing that the Paradise Room doors at the top of the spiral stairs would most likely be locked at this stage, a member of staff led me up a back staircase (that I didn't previously know existed) to the Paradise Room. I put on my outfit for the evening, chose my seat, set up my camcorder and tripod and rehearsed my Gong Show act once through on stage.Around 19:45 the doors at the top of the spiral stairs opened to members not taking part. This year's theme was Circus, and many dressed in something connected with circuses. Some dressed in clown suits. One member dressed in a lion outfit (a timely reminder of the days when circuses included performing animals). Two members dressed in Minion outfits, though I don't see what they had to do with circuses. The basis of my outfit was a yellow and green striped Adidas long sleeved football shirt and pale grey Nike shell suit bottoms, both of which I've had for several years. I also wore a red nose (which I received during a day visit to Butlins Minehead in September 2004), a green wig which Mark and Margo gave me, and a pair of clown gloves which I bought from Just Beauty in Bath earlier in the week. To complete my outfit I pinned three red carnations, which I had made from red tissue paper, to the front of my football shirt to resemble buttons.
Show Opener: Alan Chilvers & Co.
At 20:20 the show began with the traditional big top tune "Entrance of the Gladiators". Heather Hall, Alan Hunt, Debra Boggis, Maz Nixon and Carol Hedges appeared on stage dressed as clowns, one of whom juggled batons and another had a hoop. Once the big top music ended, Alan Chilvers joined the group to sing "We Love The Circus". Oddly enough he was holding a small plastic chair; I don't see what that had to do with circus. A lively act to get the show going.Introduction: Andy Hine
When the above act ended, Nev entered the stage to give his opening speech, including some jokes. He asked the audience if they managed to get on Big One, and other rides he individually named. Afterwards he invited Woody from Birmingham on stage to perform a trick with a cigarette. Woody stood with an unlit cigarette between his lips and Nev attempted to chop it in half with a whip.Act 1: Kelly Cameron - "Hit Me With Your Best Shot"
Kelly Cameron has performed billed acts for a few years, but didn't perform last year. This year she was back to sing "Hit Me With Your Best Shot". A good song, but it didn't seem to have any connection with circus.Andy Hine - Mind Reading
All those in the audience who had a bingo ticket. Nev called a series of numbers, one at a time. Each time members who didn't have the specified number had to sit down, resulting in fewer and fewer members still standing after each number. Eventually Lorraine was the only person still standing, and she was invited on stage for mind reading.Lorraine had to pick one of several cards with doing words on, and memorise what was on the card without showing anyone. Nev wrote on a large card what he thought it was, before asking Lorraine a series of questions. Eventually he handed Lorraine a large card, with its face side concealed, and asked her what the word was. Lorraine replied "Eat". Nev asked her to turn the card she was holding to face the audience, and it said "EAT" on it. That is not what he wrote on the blank card facing the audience at the start of the trick!
Act 2: Ella & Thrill Force - Acrobatics
CJ won the Gong Show in 2013, and returned to perform a billed act in 2014. They were back again this year to perform a two-part act. In part one, two girls known as Thrill Force performed a series of acrobatic moves accompanied by the Michael Jackson song "Thriller". In the second part Ella did cartwheels, leg splits and other acrobatic moves on a mat.Game 1: Kids' Gopher
It was now time for the first of tonight's games, this one solely for children under 12. Ten children entered at the start. When called, they ran into the audience to fetch an item specified by Nev, e.g. hotel key, camera. The time it took all the children to find the required item varied considerably. Each time they returned there was one less chair, forcing the child unable to find a seat out, just like musical chairs.Here is the complete list of items the children were asked to get:
Trip badge (not Blackpool Bash 2015)
Wrist watch (not participating child's own)
Photo of a loved one
Hotel key
Something edible
Nail file
Camera (not mobile phone)
Red clown nose (must be wearing it on return)
Blackpool Bash first timer, siting on lap
Winner: Ella.
Act 3: Liberty Williams - "Clown" (Emily Sande)
When Nev introduced this act, he said this young performer has grown up with the show, having performed for several years. This year Liberty Williams was back to sing the circus themed song "Clown" by Emily Sande. A significant chorus line was "I'll be your clown". Unfortunately I missed most of this as I had go back stage for the Gong Show at the start of her act.The Gong Show
It was now time for the famous Gong Show, which consisted of eight acts. Four of them were entering the Gong Show for the first time ever, whereas the other four participants had entered the Gong Show in previous years.Gong Act 1: Nemesis Nick - Roll Up Roll Up (Boogie Beebies) HORN WENT
The Gong Show began with my Boogie Beebies dance Roll Up Roll Up. I was originally hoping to perform this circus themed dance as the official billed opening act of the evening, but when I suggested it to Nev during Loopathon 2014 only to be told an opening act was already in place, I suggested performing it as the opening Gong Show act. The title explains why I wanted to perform this at the start of the Gong Show, sending out a "roll up for the circus" message to fit in with evening's circus theme. Anyway this attracted booing from the start, and the horn went mid-way through the second chorus.Gong Act 2: The Coaster Kids - Circus Skills HORN WENT
From one circus themed Gong Show act to another! These four girls appeared in the Gong Show in 2012 and as billed acts in 2013 and 2014. This year they returned to the Gong Show, dressed in clown outfits, to perform circus skills accompanied by big top music. One girl spun a hoop around her hip, one girl juggled balls, one girl skipped and one girl spun a plate. They were joined by a younger fifth girl who walked on part way through with a custard pie, which was passed to Nev and on to an unexpected victim in the audience! After that, the horn went signalling the end of their act. Despite that, they attracted cheering and applause as they left the stage.Gong Act 3: The Nutty Professors - "Periodic Table"
Peter, Laura and Aiden O'Brien entered the Gong Show for the first time ever this year under the stage name The Nutty Professors. They had two assistants who brought on a giant periodic table of the elements. When they first appeared, they attracted boo and off calls. Nonetheless the song "Periodic Table" began playing, and thereafter Peter pointed to each element whilst Laura and Aiden sang the lyrics. Despite the initial boo and off calls, they made it to the end of the song without the horn going, and attracted much cheering and applause at the end.Gong Act 4: Ryan Hackett - Advert HORN WENT
At the start of this act Nev asked the audience if they remembered the past Blackpool Bash adverts for Cadbury's, Go Compare, Shake 'n' Vac. All were performed by Ryan Hackett during the Blackpool Bash in past years. Anyway Ryan was back in this year's Gong Show to perform his latest mock advert, accompanied by the song "Don't You Wish Your Girlfriend". Some clapped in time with the music but eventually the horn went. At the end Nev joked "Should have gone to Money Supermarket".Gong Act 5: Lorraine White - "Gypsies" HORN WENT
Another first time appearance in the Gong Show, Lorraine White appeared on stage, dressed as a gypsy. She sang a parodised version of the song "Gypsies", containing references to fairground rides and theme parks. Her performance was quite good, but when she reached the third chorus the horn went. Well done anyway considering that, according to Nev, it was her first time of singing on stage.Gong Act 6: Death - "Coaster Loopy" HORN WENT
In the past Death has been booed off as soon as his name has been called! This time Death attracted cheering and applause as he walked on to the stage, and began singing "Coaster Loopy" (a parodised version of "Snooker Loopy"). The audience clapped along to the song, and amazingly he reached the end of the song. For some reason Nev blew the horn at that point (presumably as a joke) and said "Death has never, ever got to the end of his performance".Gong Act 7: Paul Bailey - "Star Trekkin'"
Another first-timer in the Gong Show, Paul Bailey danced around the stage to the song "Star Trekkin'". Each line of this build-up song had its own distinctive dance move. He made it to the end without the horn going, and attracted much cheering and applause at the end.Gong Act 8: Lorraine Downing - "When I'm Riding Coasters"
Yet another first-timer in the Gong Show, Lorraine Downing sang her own parodised version of the George Formby song "When I'm Cleaning Windows". Lorraine's song was called "When I'm Riding Coasters". Whilst singing she played a ukulele. She reached the end of the song without the horn going, and attracted much cheering and applause at the end.Vote for Best Act
Top three: Death, Paul Bailey, Lorraine DowningDue to an inconclusive top three vote, Nev declared all three joint winners.
Vote for Worst Act
Bottom two: Nemesis Nick, The Nutty ProfessorsUltimate worst: Nemesis Nick
Well what a strange result! My act attracted the least amount of cheering during the vote for the best act, and greatest amount of booing during the vote for the worst act. I'd have thought that, by deliberately opening the Gong Show with a circus themed performance people would have regarded that as fitting in with the rest of the circus themed evening and thus wanted to have seen it in full (by cheering along the way). Amazingly Death, who has been booed off as soon as his name was called previous years, made it on to the stage and all the way to the end of his song this time. He even went on to become a shared winner, along with Paul Bailey and Lorraine Downing. It seems that, the later you performed in this year's Gong Show, the better you did, as the three equal winners happened to be the final three acts, whereas my act (which was voted ultimate worst) was the opening act. Well done to The Nutty Professors (Peter, Laura and Aiden O'Brien), Lorraine White, Paul Bailey and Lorraine Downing, all of whom were participating in the Gong Show for the first time ever.
Act 4: Gary Williams - "Up All Night" (Take That)
Back to the billed acts next. Gary Williams sang the Take That song "Up All Night". For those mystified as to it has to do with the evening's circus theme, it's from the Take That album "Circus", hence the connection.Game 2: In A Spin!
The final game of the night was for adults. Six adults participated for the chance a night in the Big Blue Hotel. Each contestant had three attempts at spinning a plate, accompanied by the song "I'm Spinning Around". Unfortunately all six dropped their plates! After all six contestants had finished, the best two, Miles and Cat, were called forward for the final round, during which the two finalists had 30 seconds each to get the plate spinning, accompanied by the Dead Or Alive song "You Spin Me Round (Like A Record)". Again both kept dropping the plate. Once both finalists had finished, Nev asked the audience to cheer for who they thought was the best finalist.Winner: Cat - won a night at the Big Blue Hotel and wristbands for two.
Runner-up: Miles - Hot Ice Show tickets, Ripleys and crazy golf.
At the end Nev asked all six contestants to simultaneously try and get their plates spinning, accompanied by the song "You Spin Me Round (Like A Record)". Once again all kept dropping their plates, but eventually some managed a few spins. The contestants continued spinning their plates when that song finished and the next one started.
Finale: Alan Chilvers - "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life"
Whilst the contestants were still spinning their plates, Alan Chilvers walked on stage to sing the closing song of the show "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life". During the first chorus the plate spinners gradually left the stage. After that, members who had taken part in the show earlier, including me, appeared on the stage to wave their arms in the air in time to the music.Andy Hine: Thank Yous
When the song finished, Nev appeared on stage and said "Ladies and gentlemen, the cast of the Coaster Crazy Show 2015". He gave his closing message, and said thank you to the individual billed performers and collectively those who participated in the Gong Show, and the staff.After Show Party
During Nev's closing speech the stage went down to form the dance floor for the one-hour disco which followed. Many including me danced along. The mix of song snippets included "Happy Days", "YMCA" (Village People), "My Old Silver Lining", "Glad All Over", "The Locomotion", "Gangnam Style", etc. Towards the end the following four songs were played in full:Dancing Lasha Tumbai (Ryan and co appeared on stage just in front of the curtains doing the actions)
Amarillo
Always Look on the Bright Side of Life
New York
Finally the Warner Brothers cartoon "That's all folks" marked the end of the disco.
When the disco ended, all those who had dressed up assembled in front of the curtains for the group photo. After that members were asked to pack up and leave as quickly as possible. I collected my belongings from my dressing room, along with my other items at the table where I sat much of the show. Around 23:30 I finally left the Paradise Room via the spiral stairs and was back at my hotel a few minutes later.
Summary of Evening
Show Opener: Alan Chilvers & Co.
Introduction: Andy Hine
Act 1: Kelly Cameron - "Hit Me With Your Best Shot"
Andy Hine - Mind Reading
Act 2: Ella & Thrill Force - Acrobatics
Game 1: Kids' Gopher
Act 3: Liberty Williams - "Clown" (Emily Sande)
The Gong Show
1: Nemesis Nick - Roll Up Roll Up (Boogie Beebies) horn went
2: The Coaster Kids - Circus Skills horn went
3: The Nutty Professors - "Periodic Table"
4: Ryan Hackett - Advert horn went
5: Lorraine White - "Gypsies" horn went
6: Death - "Coaster Loopy" horn went
7: Paul Bailey - "Star Trekkin'"
8: Lorraine Downing - "When I'm Riding Coasters"
Top three: Death, Paul Bailey, Lorraine Downing; all three declared joint winners
Bottom two: Nemesis Nick, The Nutty Professors; Ultimate worst: Nemesis Nick
Act 4: Gary Williams - "Up All Night" (Take That)
Game 2: In A Spin!
Finale: Alan Chilvers - "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life"
Andy Hine: Thank Yous
After Show Party (Disco)
Group photo
Altogether an excellent evening of entertainment; although performed by RCCGB members I think it was better than Friday night's entertainment. For me it was great to perform the circus themed Boogie Beebies dance "Roll Up Roll Up" in Gong Show. The after show disco provided a lively end to the evening.
Back to the top
Day Three - Sunday 12 April
First Thing
After an action packed Saturday I awoke at 6:50, put on my RCCGB 25th anniversary T-shirt, packed and felt thirsty for more. Just like Saturday I had an early breakfast at 8:00. It consisted of cereal (I chose cornflakes), a glass of orange juice, a full English breakfast, four triangles of toast and a pot of coffee.Initial Meet-Up
As I was about to leave my hotel just before 9:00 it was raining heavily outside, so I put on my all-in-one splashsuit before walking to the Pleasure Beach as quickly as possible. A few minutes later I got to the Casino Tower. Everyone was waiting inside the tower on the ground floor. Unsurprisingly everyone was appropriately dressed for the rain; however someone said to me "Fancy dress was last night". Evidently that member thought my all-in-one splashsuit was an item of fancy dress rather than an item of rainwear! I went to the main desk to exchange my Sunday Wristband Voucher for my wristband and gate pass. Whilst there I asked if any rides would be running in the wind and rain; the person serving me said they can operate everything except the Big One and Flying Machines. When it was almost time to enter the Park, Nev said that, despite the wind and rain, we would still be having the WOW ERS on Grand National, Big Dipper and Wild Mouse. However WOW would now mean Wet On Wood rather than Wild On Wood.Morning ERS
When Nev was given the signal by the staff, the Club entered through the gates and for the WOW ERS.Grand National
Although the RCCGB did not have a Grand National ERS Saturday late afternoon, Grand National was one of the three coasters included in the Sunday morning ERS. I had four goes on Grand National. Each time the ride was considerably rougher than when I rode it Saturday afternoon, presumably due to the wet track. To make matters worse the rain was hammering into riders' faces.First go (left lift hill): I sat in the blue train which climbed the left lift hill. Opponent green train on the right lift hill. The green train won and the blue train which I was on lost, worse luck!
Second go (right lift hill): I sat in the blue train which climbed the right lift hill. Opponent green train on the left lift hill. Having cleared the top of the lift hill the green train took the lead to start with, but the blue train overtook. A little later the green train overtook and led again. Towards the end the blue train overtook, led the way to the finish line and won. An exciting and unpredictable race start to finish!
Third go (left lift hill): I sat in the blue train, which climbed the left lift hill. Opponent green train on the right lift hill. The green train won.
Fourth go (right lift hill): I sat in the blue train, which climbed the right lift hill. Opponent green train on the left lift hill. The blue train won.
Altogether four hair-raising rides on Grand National to start the day in the wind and rain. Interestingly I rode in the blue train (versus the green train on the opposite track) each time, lost twice and won twice. It's also interesting to note that on each of the above goes, whichever train climbed the right lift hill won and the train which climbed the left lift hill lost. Was this random chance, or was the train climbing the right lift hill guaranteed to win?
Wild Mouse
Since I didn't ride Wild Mouse at all Saturday, I was determined to ride it during the Sunday morning ERS. The waiting time was quite short when I approached it. According to the Roller Coaster Database, this wooden mouse coaster was built in-house by Frank Wright, and has been operating since 1958. When it was my turn I got into car number 4. The car climbed the lift hill, and worked its way downwards through several sharp hairpin bends along the way. This made for quite a rough ride. I noticed AIRtime on the dips near the end. This was my only go on Wild Mouse all day.Big Dipper
My next stop was Big Dipper, and there was still time remaining in the ERS for me to have a go. Its queue was quite short. The ride was quite rough with plenty of AIRtime on the dips. After my first go on Big Dipper I asked how much more ERT we still have. The attendant said "three minutes" and led riders straight through a gate back to the departure platform. After my second go the ERS was officially over.After ERS
The 2015 Blackpool Bash was to all intents and purposes over when the ERS finished at 10:47. No further events (e.g. lunch, later ERS) were scheduled for Sunday. Members with Sunday wristbands stayed and continued riding. Those without Sunday wristbands left and went straight home (perhaps stopping at another park en route) or visited other Blackpool attractions. Since I had a Sunday wristband for the second year running, I continued riding until just after 16:00. During the rest of the day I enjoyed plenty more rides, however I didn't re-ride Grand National, Wild Mouse or Big Dipper the rest of the day.My next stop was Nickelodeon Land. When I got there I saw Patrick the Starfish, so I had my picture taken with him. Shortly afterwards Big Stevie B, Kelly Cameron, several other RCCGB members and I had a group photo taken with Patrick the Starfish.
Nickelodeon Streak
My first post-ERS ride, and fourth wooden coaster for Sunday morning, was Nickelodeon Streak. The queuing time for this was very short; much less than was the case during the RCCGB ERS on it Saturday morning. I enjoyed two goes on this.Blue Flyer
Having ridden four out of the five wooden coasters Sunday morning, my next port of call was the smallest wooden coaster, Blue Flyer. This was walk-on, and I enjoyed two goes.Now that I had ridden all five wooden coasters (including both lift hills of Grand National) one after another, I turned to various other rides around the Pleasure Beach. Funnily enough I didn't ride any of the wooden coasters again later.
SpongeBob's Splash Bash
This was introduced as part of Nickelodeon Land in 2011. It comprises sets of circular boats on small turntables. The small turntables spin on a larger turntable which also spins. The effect is a bit like riding a twister or waltzer ride but not as fast. At the start of the ride the turntables sink so the area is flooded. Each boat has water cannons, so whilst the ride is in motion you can squirt riders on other boats, and on-lookers outside the ride. Be warned though, riders on other boats may squirt you back! There are also water cannons outside the ride, which allow on-lookers to squirt riders. Therefore you will probably get a bit wet on this ride. Now was the perfect time to ride this when I was already wearing my splashsuit to keep my dry in the rain anyway. Altogether a fun ride, but my one go now was my only go on this all day.Avalanche
At this point I left Nickelodeon Land to ride the bobsled coaster Avalanche. The queue for this was currently much shorter than when I rode it Saturday afternoon. Despite the wind and rain I didn't notice any difference in the ride experience compared to Saturday afternoon. Just like Saturday afternoon I remained quiet and relaxed throughout the journey from start to finish.I was going to have a second go on Avalanche, but since someone had lost a hat on the track, the train couldn't run. One of the attendants said there'd be about 10 to 15 minutes delay whilst someone searches the track. Several riders including me left at this point; I looked for another ride. By now the rain had just about stopped.
Crazy Daisy
Formerly the Tetley Tea Cup Ride, this was repainted predominantly green and renamed Crazy Daisy some time during the 2014 season. This differs from a normal tea cup ride in that there are two turntables, with notches in. The cups cleverly swap from one turntable to the other when the notches meet in the middle. Each cup has a centre table, but unlike a normal tea cup ride, you can't turn it to spin the cup faster, the cups just spin themselves. I sat in cup 4. My one go now was my only go on this all day.Krusty Krab Order Up
Back in Nickelodeon Land, my next ride was Krusty Krab Order Up. Formerly known as Fruit Shoot The Ride in the Beaver Creek section until 2010, this Moser Rides drop tower was re-themed and renamed The Krusty Krab Order Up for inclusion in Nickelodeon Land in 2011. It has two seat units (one each side of the tower). Obviously this is only a baby tower compared to the Ice Blast, and quite a quite a tame ride really. Just like any other Moser Rides drop tower I've been on elsewhere, the seat unit went up and down a few times and that was it, nothing scary about it. I only had one go on this.At this point I briefly went into Big Pizza Kitchen, I saw Nev and several others there having pizza; I spoke to Nev for a few minutes. However I decided not to get myself pizza as I wanted to make do on a hot dog during the next hour or so, and get fish and chips just before going to Blackpool North station in the evening. This was my last time of seeing Nev for this trip.
Backyardigans Pirate Treasure
Staying in Nickelodeon Land, my next ride was Backyardigans Pirate Treasure. The lady operating this evidently remembered me from Saturday morning, as she noticed I wasn't wearing my "Coaster Crazy Kid on Tour" hi-vis. I said it was in my big bag back at my hotel, as I didn't want to get it wet in the rain. I sat in boat 10 and enjoyed the ride. My one go now was my only go on here all day.Diego's Rainforest Rescue
Being as this is next-door to Backyardigans Pirate Treasure, I rode Diego's Rainforest Rescue next. I sat in balloon 4 and enjoyed the ride top and down again, whilst simultaneously going around and around the tower. My one go now was my only time of riding this all day.Suddenly I met Big Stevie B, Kelly Cameron and others outside Big Pizza Kitchen. We posed for a few pictures together there. Afterwards the others wanted to ride Wallace & Gromit's Thrill-O-Matic together, so I agreed to ride with them, and we walked together to that ride.
Wallace & Gromit's Thrill-O-Matic
When we got to this ride we faced just a few minutes' queuing time. Talking to each other quickly passed the time. When it was our turn Kelly sat next to me in one row of the ride car, whereas Big Stevie B and someone else were in the other row of the same car. We only had one go on this. This was my only known time of riding with other RCCGB members after the ERS on Sunday.Lunch
At this point I went alone to get myself a hot dog somewhere, preferably indoors as it was now raining heavily again. I ended up going to the Ice Arena. Whilst I was there a few other RCCGB members were sitting around a table. I sat at a neighbouring table, and spoke to them briefly after finishing my hot dog.As I was about to leave the Ice Arena an official asked if I had a wristband, so I showed him my wristband and RCCGB Blackpool Bash trip badge. Mystified as to why he wanted to see my wristband, he explained that it's possible to enter the Ice Arena (e.g. for skating) via a back entrance without the need for a Pleasure Beach pass or wristband, therefore he needs to check people's Pleasure Beach Passes or ride wristbands to prevent people sneaking into the Pleasure Beach via the Ice Arena without a pass or ride wristband.
River Caves
Since it was still raining when I left the Ice Arena, I rode River Caves next as that's mostly under cover. I sat in boat 3. The journey through the chambers was just the same as when I rode this on Saturday afternoon. When the boat got to the outdoor section near the end, the wind and rain could be felt, but that didn't really matter as I was appropriately dressed for the weather and the splash when the boat reached the bottom of the hill (which would have occurred anyway whatever the weather). This was my only go on here all day.Alice Ride
This fantasy ride transports riders through an Alice In Wonderland / Through The Looking Glass themed building, featuring characters from the story. Towards the end there is an outdoor section. When I approached this ride there was no queue, so I was able to get straight into a car. Interestingly the ride cars run on a track, which has mild undulations, so can one class this as a coaster? Not a particularly thrilling ride, but worth one go to increase my ride count on it. My one go on this now ended up being my only go on this all day.Derby Racer
My next ride was Derby Racer, largely due to it being covered by a canopy which offered shelter from the rain. My one go on it now was my only go all day.Ice Blast
One major ride I missed on Saturday, so I was determined to ride it Sunday, and I was lucky enough to be able to get straight on the next run when I approached it. This S&S Worldwide Space Shot ride is one of the best thrill rides in the Pleasure Beach. Its seat unit wraps around its 210 feet (64 metres) tall tower. Once seated and harnessed in, a blast of air sent the seat unit to the top of the tower. After a short delay, the seat unit dropped to the ground again, its descent somehow slowed as it neared the ground. Wow, an amazing ride experience, despite the rain! My one go on this now was my only go on it all day.Afternoon Coffee
As I passed Avatar Airbender
Another ride I missed Saturday, this Zamperla Disko was introduced as part of Nickelodeon Land in 2011. Riders sit at the edge of a giant disk facing outwards. The disk spins whilst travelling a u-shaped track back and forth. In my opinion, the ride experience was no different to any other Zamperla Disko I've ridden elsewhere. A fun ride, but once was enough; just like any other Disko there's no way I could take two goes straight off. This was my last Nickelodeon Land ride of the day.Revolution
Having left Nickelodeon Land I headed for Revolution. When I got to the top of the stairs there were only a few people in front of me by the turnstile, unlike Saturday late afternoon. Unfortunately that created a problem because a minimum number of people was required to run the train in the strong wind, and I could not be accommodated on the train that was about to depart. I was now the only person waiting by the turnstile, so when the train returned to the station I had to wait for enough riders to join me for another adequate load. Fortunately I didn't have to wait long for that. I got on to the train with other riders and once despatched, the ride through the loop to the dead end and back through the loop seemed no different to what I experienced Saturday late afternoon, despite the wind. Although great fun, I reluctantly limited myself to just one go as I wanted to fit in other rides afterwards.Steeplechase
My next ride was Steeplechase. Two of its three tracks, red and green, were operating. An attendant told me the yellow track also operated earlier in the day, but they had to close that as the horses got stuck due to the wind and had to be pulled in by rope. I was hoping to ride the red and green tracks, so I began by queuing for the red track. Whilst there were still a few in front of me, the green track queue was empty, so the attendant called me over to the green track. I got on the horse and sang "Giddy up giddy up brave prince" and shouted "giddy up, people have got their money bet on you", but despite that the horse on red track won.I was going to queue for the red track again next (and insist on going on it), but since the Big One had just opened, I went to see how many were already queuing for Big One. Evidently the wind had now dropped sufficiently to run it.
The Big One
This Arrow Dynamics Hyper Coaster has been operating at Blackpool Pleasure Beach since 28 May 1994. From 1994 to 2011 it was called Pepsi Max Big One, but since 2012 it has been known simply as Big One. Nonetheless the giant Pepsi Max can tunnel that the train goes through just after leaving the station is still there. Big One is one of five coasters of this model currently operating worldwide. Back in 1994 Big One was the tallest, fastest, steepest coaster in Europe, but sadly that's no longer the case. Although its maximum height of 213' (64.9 m) means it's still the UK's tallest coaster, it's now only the third tallest coaster operating in Europe. According to the Roller Coaster Database, Big One's top speed of 74 mph means it's now only the second fastest coaster in the UK, and sixth fastest currently operating coaster in Europe. It's certainly not the steepest any more, now there's Stealth, Rage and Mumbo Jumbo. The station announcement has now been amended to say "one of the tallest, fastest, steepest coasters in Europe".Quite a fair few people had already joined the queue for the Big One when I got there, but fortunately the back of the queue was still well within the station building so I joined it. A couple of runs later it was my turn to get on; I managed to get into the second row from the front. Two others from the RCCGB were in the front row waiting bay the same time as me, but they couldn't ride the same time as me as two people with fast passes arrived and were placed in the front row of the train I was on. The train exited the station, climbed the lift hill, descended the steep first drop and over the subsequent undulations as far as the U-bend near Noah's Ark just the same as when I've ridden it previous years. After the U-bend it was clear that the train had the wind to contend with on the remaining undulations because it seemed to be slowing down as it neared the hill tops but thankfully picked up sufficient momentum on each descent to complete the next rise and crest. Despite all that the train made it back to the station without stalling. Altogether a mega fun ride on what is one of my favourite steel coasters; I remained quiet (no screaming) throughout the journey. Since I didn't have much time left after that, I had to limit myself to just this one go, but at least this one go on Big One all weekend was better than none at all.
Infusion
I hoped to get at least one go on Infusion before leaving, and when I got there it was walk-on. On my first go I sat in seat 9. As the train went around the track the cold wind could be felt, and thus I was glad to be wearing a few layers of clothing, but apart from that the ride seemed no rougher than when I rode Infusion Saturday morning.Afterwards I returned to the entry point for a second go, and once again managed to get straight through the turnstile, but did say to the attendant there I might have to make this my final go. This time I sat in seat 2, which is in the front row, and thus enjoyed an unobstructed view of the way ahead.
Having left this time, the time was still just before 16:00, so I decided to squeeze in one more go. However I knew full well this would definitely have to be my last go on any ride (not just Infusion). This time I sat in seat 7 and enjoyed the ride from start to finish. After that, there was no time to go on any other rides elsewhere, thus my Sunday riding ended where my Saturday riding began, Infusion.
Summary of my day in order of activity
Morning ERS: Grand National 4, Wild Mouse 1, Big Dipper 2
Nickelodeon Streak 2
Blue Flyer 2
SpongeBob's Splash Bash 1
Avalanche 1
Crazy Daisy 1
Krusty Krab Order Up 1
Backyardigans Pirate Treasure 1
Diego's Rainforest Rescue 1
Wallace & Gromit's Thrill-O-Matic 1
Hot Dog at Ice Arena
River Caves 1
Alice Ride 1
Derby Racer 1
Ice Blast 1
Cappuccino at
Avatar Airbender 1
Revolution 1
Steeplechase green 1
The Big One 1
Infusion 3
Cumulative Summary of My Rides (ERS and Free Time Combined)
| Ride | Total |
| Alice Ride | 1 |
| Avalanche | 1 |
| Avatar Airbender | 1 |
| Backyardigans Pirate Treasure | 1 |
| Big Dipper | 2 |
| Blue Flyer | 2 |
| Crazy Daisy | 1 |
| Derby Racer | 1 |
| Diego's Rainforest Rescue | 1 |
| Grand National | 4 |
| Ice Blast | 1 |
| Infusion | 3 |
| Krusty Krab Order Up | 1 |
| Nickelodeon Streak | 2 |
| Revolution | 1 |
| River Caves | 1 |
| SpongeBob's Splash Bash | 1 |
| Steeplechase | 1 |
| The Big One | 1 |
| Wallace & Gromit's Thrill-O-Matic | 1 |
| Wild Mouse | 1 |
| TOTAL | 29 |
Since the rain had now stopped completely I removed my splashsuit and put it in my rucksack. Just before leaving the Pleasure Beach I had a few pictures taken of me in just my RCCGB 25th anniversary T-shirt, but since it was still quite windy I was glad to get my hoody back on as soon as possible afterwards.
Altogether another great day's riding, despite the wind and rain much of the day. It was good that I managed to have one ride with a few other RCCGB members more than two hours after the WOW ERS had ended, it's a pity I didn't get a few more rides with other members after the ERS. At least I managed to get one go on the Big One late afternoon; that being my only go on it the whole weekend.
Sunday Late Afternoon
I finally left the Pleasure Beach at 16:20. Without further ado I returned to my hotel briefly to collect my luggage. Having left the hotel for the last time I walked to South Pier tram stop, whereupon I had just a few minutes' wait for a tram to North Pier. After leaving the tram at North Pier I walked to nearby Frying Squad to get myself fish, chips and mushy peas. Since I still had plenty of time to spare I chose to eat them at one of the tables inside.Journey Home
After I finishing my meal I walked to Blackpool North station and arrived there at 17:23. There were still about twenty minutes before the train I had booked to travel on was due to depart, so I bought myself a small Americano in Pumpkin café and relaxed in the café itself to drink it. Before I knew it, I realised I only had about two minutes left to get to the platform for the 17:44 train to Preston. I hurried through the ticket barrier with what was left of my coffee and my luggage, and luckily made it on to the said train seconds before its doors closed! Looking back I'd have done better to have bought myself the cup of coffee from Pumpkin Café, gone through the ticket barrier immediately afterwards and sat in the ticket holders' part of the concourse to drink my coffee whilst waiting. Anyway the rest of the journey went like clockwork; having reached Preston I caught the 18:17 Virgin Pendolino to Wolverhampton, followed by the 19:41 train to Birmingham New Street, and then the train to Bristol Temple Meads. The final leg of my journey was the 22:10 train to Bath Spa. I eventually reached Bath Spa at 22:22.Back to the top
Outro
Highlights
Meeting members I've met on previous Club trips again (including Andy and Christine Hine, Alan Chilvers, Barry Frost, Death, Happy Helen, Sophia Jones, Kelly Cameron, Planenut, Ryan Hackett, Doug and Charlie).Saturday morning ERS on Infusion, Nickelodeon Streak and Blue Flyer.
Sunday morning WOW ERS on Grand National, Big Dipper and Wild Mouse.
Good overall ride count both Saturday and Sunday (during morning ERS and normal time).
Riding all five wooden coasters (including both lift hills of Grand National) in succession Sunday morning.
Two nights of entertainment, plus dancing in the disco Saturday evening.
Performing "Roll Up Roll Up" from Boogie Beebies in the Gong Show Saturday evening
Dry, sunny weather Saturday (albeit a bit windy).
Lowlights
High winds put Big One out of action much of Saturday and Sunday (including the time reserved for the Saturday morning ERS).Rain on and off Sunday.
Unexpected Surprises
Death reaching the end of his song in the Gong Show and being one of three joint winners.Summing Up
Another mega excellent weekend away at Blackpool Pleasure Beach in Granadaland, my eighth Blackpool Bash to-date. It was great riding the Big One, Grand National, Infusion and other rides again, and catching up with other members. Thanks a million to Andy Hine for all the effort involved in organising a trip of this nature. At the Blackpool Bash, the ERSs and other riding are only part of the fun. The other major chunk of the fun includes the Friday evening entertainment, Saturday lunch and Saturday evening Coaster Crazy Show and disco. It was great to be in the Gong Show for the sixth time to-date, but I'm still surprised how my act failed to impress the audience when it was directly connected with Saturday evening's circus theme. No wonder Nev says in the Blackpool Bash invite "If you can only make one Club trip this year, make it this one".Back to the top
No comments:
Post a Comment