Family-friendly theme park announces shock sudden closure

A popular family-friendly theme park in Cornwall is closing its doors after 50 years with immediate effect, leaving fans devastated.

Flambards Theme Park in Helston announced the closure on Monday morning, citing rising costs and a 'steady decline in visitor numbers'.

'Flambards has been a cherished destination for generations, and it is with a heavy heart that we bid farewell,' a statement on the park's Facebook page read.

Previous visitors to the park were heartbroken at the news, describing the closure as a 'huge loss' and 'absolutely gutting'. 

It comes months after the park announced the closure of four of its rides due to an 'ongoing shortage of specialist parts' - which forced owners to reduce the cost of a ticket to just £14.95 each. 

An indoor play centre attached to the park will reopen later this month as a standalone attraction. 

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The theme park first opened in 1976 and was renamed after a popular TV show in the 1990s. 

It has boasted family rides, rollercoasters, a Victorian town and a life-size replica of a London street during the Blitz. 

A spokesperson for the park said: 'It is with great regret we have to announce Flambards Theme Park will close its doors permanently with immediate effect.

'This difficult decision was reached only after all possible avenues had been exhausted and we fully recognise the impact of this closure on the local community and the sense of loss that it may bring,

'Despite significant and ongoing investment since its rescue from closure in 2012 by the current owners, rising costs and a steady decline in visitor numbers have made the park’s operation and further investment unsustainable.

'Over the years, Flambards has strived to evolve, overcoming numerous challenges to continue bringing joy to families and visitors from across the region.

'Unfortunately, this year saw the retirement of several older thrill rides, as the increasing difficulty of sourcing specialised parts and maintenance expertise became insurmountable.

'Additionally, the much-loved Victorian Village exhibition now requires extensive remedial work; it will remain closed while we investigate alternative options to preserve and honour this unique collection.

'While the theme park itself will no longer operate, we are pleased to confirm that Ferdi’s Funland, the indoor play centre, will re-open as a standalone attraction on November 17th, providing a familiar place of play for younger visitors.

'Flambards has been a cherished destination for generations, and it is with a heavy heart that we bid farewell.

'To our loyal supporters and dedicated team, who have given their unwavering commitment through difficult times, we extend our sincerest gratitude. Thank you for making Flambards a special place.'

The park added that a planned masked ball this Saturday will go ahead as planned.

Visitors were heartbroken by the news, with one saying the closure meant there was 'nothing for children and young people' in the whole of Cornwall.

'Absolutely gutted for our community and Cornwall as a whole. I can understand that times are tough and the economy etc, but it doesn't feel like places in Devon and above are suffering like we are. So sad,' they added.

A second added: 'So sad to read this. They've provided employment for lots of teenagers over the years. Where else can they work within walking distance of home? Whilst no-one is surprised by this it is a great shame for the local area.'

Another said: 'Devastating news. Have supported Flambards for the last 5-6 years with season tickets and you could see the gradual decline. Even more so beyond Covid-19. 

'I can't bring myself to tell my six year old son as he will be gutted. Such sad news for those who are going to lose their jobs.'