Alton towers will be opening a new ride that’s been named ‘too scary’ for those under the age of 12 by the British Board of Film Classification.
The ride, Nemesis Sub-Terra, as a result younger visitors to the park will not be able to experience this ride when it opens for the Easter holidays this weekend.
The BBFC were invited to experience the new ride by Alton Towers following feedback from the testing panel, this will be the first time they have classified a theme park ride.
Murray Perkins of the BBFC concluded that Nemesis Sub-Terra contained ‘some intense moments, in some respects comparable with scary scenes which may be experienced in horror or science fiction films at ’12A’/’12’.’
He said that as a result, the BBFC recommended Alton Towers should classify the experience in the ’12A’ category, which allows for ‘moderate physical and psychological threat, provided that the disturbing sequences are not frequent or sustained.’
The rid is completely in the dark, but what actually happens to you during the experience is being kept quiet until it officially opens on March 24.
It has been described as ‘neither a ride, performance nor a maze’.
Publicity has called the ride ‘unlike anything the world has seen before – a psychologically and physically thrilling experience, taking place in a dark, intense underground setting and based around the back-story of the original Nemesis attraction, launched in 1994.’
Mr Perkins said: ‘We are seeing a real blur of the old boundaries of visual content and physical experience in both 3D and 4D cinema, and at theme parks.
‘After experiencing the attraction first-hand, based on 100 years of experience and line with British public opinion, we would recommend that Alton Towers Resort classify the new Nemesis Sub-Terra a 12A.’
Katherine Duckworth of Alton Towers said: ‘The classification advice from the BBFC is important to ensure the well-being of our guests.’
She added: ‘We are aware the enforcement’s that will now be implemented will mean that many of our younger visitors are unable to experience Nemesis Sub-Terra, which we are obviously concerned about.
‘However, the Alton Towers Resort prides itself on offering a variety of rides for all ages and we hope that those under the age of 12 will continue to enjoy our other attractions.’