Leeds gets ready to hit the beach this weekend

A new child-friendly rollercoaster ride and a special pirate-themed event will be among the star attractions as Leeds’s popular City Beach spectacular returns this weekend.

The official opening of the urban beach will take place on Millennium Square this Saturday, Aug 8, at 11am when Councillor Judith Blake, leader of Leeds City Council, will be joined by Emma, Breakfast Show presenter with media partners Heart Radio.

Organised by International Funfairs in partnership with Leeds City Council, City Beach is now in its third year and will be open daily from 10.30am to 7pm until Monday, August 31.

As well as the new Thunder Mountain children's rollercoaster, a special pirate weekend will also take place on August 22-23 featuring a ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’ Jack Sparrow lookalike, pirate boats and a treasure hunt.

Other family-themed rides and activities taking place around the real sand and decking area include Bamboo Bungees trampolines, a tropical jungle adventure funhouse, beach slide, waikiki cars, seaside carousel, a traditional helter skelter, aqua walker balls and water cannons.

More adventurous visitors can take on thrill rides including the Crazy Wave and Beach Buggies dodgems.

A regular programme of weekend entertainment will also take place on the beach area including a series of live Punch and Judy shows every Saturday and Sunday from 12noon (excluding the pirate weekend) and appearances from the Heart Angels as well as various beach games and activities.

The event’s very own City Beach Radio, courtesy of Heart, will also be playing popular hits and summer tunes each day.

Visitors will also be able to sample a selection of  treats and refreshments including a beach style BBQ swing grill together with traditional seaside sweets and ice cream.

Existing street café areas will also operate as normal within themed licenced areas.

The whole event area will also be dressed and themed with bamboo and tropical greenery by the council’s parks and countryside nursery team.

Entry to the site and beach area will be free, with individual admission fees for all rides and attractions. Discounts will also be available for LEEDSCard and Breezecard holders.

Councillor Judith Blake, leader of Leeds City Council said:

“City Beach has become a real staple of the summer in Leeds and a great opportunity for families to enjoy something fun and different at the heart of the city centre.

“I’m sure this year’s event will be a big success and I’ll look forward to seeing people enjoying all the fun of the seaside on Millennium Square.”

Emma, presenter from Heart Breakfast, added:

“City Beach is a wonderful event that all of the family can enjoy and we are excited once again to be officially opening the event this Saturday and in helping to bring a taste of a traditional beach experience to the people of Leeds”

ENDS

For more details, visit: http://www.leeds.gov.uk/Events/Pages/city-beach.aspx

For media enquiries, please contact:

Stuart Robinson 

Leeds City Council press office

Telephone: (0113) 224 39 37

Email: stuart.robinson@leeds.gov.uk