Alton Towers is forced to close rollercoaster as stunned thrillseekers spot smoke pouring from ride

ALTON Towers has been forced to close a rollercoaster after smoke was seen pouring from the ride.

Footage posted on X, formerly Twitter, show plumes of smoke rising into the air from the Wicker Man ride at the popular amusement park near Stoke-on-Trent.

Smoke has been seen pouring from the Wicker Man ride at Alton Towers
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Smoke has been seen pouring from the Wicker Man ride at Alton TowersCredit: Twitter/Only A Relax
The ride has been closed for 'essential maintenance' to be carried out
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The ride has been closed for 'essential maintenance' to be carried outCredit: X/@Only_A_Relax
Alton Towers staff were seen inspecting the ride
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Alton Towers staff were seen inspecting the rideCredit: X/@Only_A_Relax

A spokesperson for Alton Towers Resort said: “Operations on Wicker Man were paused after reports of smoke in the ride area.

"Our technical team swiftly attended to the smoke and followed well-rehearsed procedures to quickly resolve the issue.

“Wicker Man is constructed with treated wood which inhibits fire ignition.

"At this stage we believe the cause of the smoke was the result of a foreign object.

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“The safety of our guests is our top priority and the ride will be closed until further notice while we carry out essential maintenance.”

Earlier this month, it was announced by the park that a popular ride would reopen, following "extended maintenance" that has seen it shut for almost a year.