Tributes paid to Alton Towers founder John Broome

Tributes have been paid to the founder of the Alton Towers theme park John Broome, who has passed away aged 80.

Broome enjoyed a 60-year career working at major attractions including Trentham Gardens, Battersea Power Station, Ironbridge Gorge, and was the CEO of Camel Creek Resort in Cornwall.

He founded the Staffordshire theme park in 1980 after having bought a concession to open a train ride through the Alton Towers estate in 1973.

Broome then sold the theme park in 1990 to the Tussauds Group.

A statement from Imperial Corporate Capital, at which Broome was a board member, said:

“John was not just a colleague; he was a visionary and a pioneer whose far-reaching impact on the tourism industry is renowned. From transforming Alton Towers into a landmark theme park to his innovative vision for Camel Creek Resort, John’s creativity and determination were truly extraordinary.

“His contribution to Imperial Corporate Capital, as well as to the broader industry, was marked by his relentless pursuit of excellence and his ability to see potential where others did not. His loss leaves a void that will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of working with him.”