WATCH: Blackpool Pleasure Beach opens new £16m Icon rollercoaster

The £16.25m ICON at Blackpool Pleasure Beach delivers the same acceleration as a Formula 1 driver before twisting and turning at speeds of up to 50mph across the park.

Pleasure Beach managing director Amanda Thompson said: "It is a simply stunning ride and I'm delighted with the look and style of it.

"We have created a totally unique experience confirming our continued commitment to make Pleasure Beach one of the world's greatest amusement parks."

Deputy managing director Nick Thompson added: "ICON has been five years in the planning and it's an amazing feeling to finally be able to welcome our guests to experience it for themselves.

"The team at Blackpool Pleasure Beach has done a fantastic job in creating what I believe is one of the best rides in the country, if not the world."

ICON is the UK's first ever ride with a double-launch - an advanced technology that gives the rollercoaster two powerful thrusts of acceleration during the ride.

See tomorrow's Gazette for a three-page special on the new ride.