» Alton Towers shuts Toxicator on opening day after pipe bursts

Alton Towers’ new ride Toxicator had to shut on its opening day when a pipe burst and brown liquid leaked out.

Park staff were inundated by frustrated riders, who took to social media about the problem at the Staffordshire park, on Saturday.

The theme park said rides were suspended for about two hours after the pipe burst, which bosses said was “unrelated to the new ride”.

“Due to an unexpected burst pipe near the ride, Toxicator briefly paused operation whilst our teams swiftly dealt with the issue,” a spokesperson said.

“The ride and surrounding area are now fully reopen and welcoming guests.”

The topspin ride can accommodate more than 500 riders an hour, who are seated back-to-back before being flipped round and held face down above a “bubbling pool of highly toxic alien acid”, according to the theme park’s website.

Standing 78ft high, it is the only topspin ride in the world to be elevated above ground level, it states.