Final preparations are well underway for a half term packed full of prehistoric fun at Clacton Pier.
A pack of life-size dinosaurs will be roaming across the attraction over nine days with the chance for all to meet the roarsome prehistoric creatures up close and personal.
The team at the pier are looking forward to welcoming newcomers Tiny the Tyrannosaurus, Angie the Ankylosaurus along with Loki the Velociraptor who was a big hit last year. All three are 8ft tall.
Jurassic half term, which begins on May 24 and continues until June 1, is being staged to celebrate the second anniversary of Jurassic Pier.
The interactive walk-through experience leading into a 4D cinema which includes motion seating, audio visual sound and lighting system with 3D glasses and water squirters was first unveiled at Whitsun 2023.
Pier General Manager Harry Peek said Jurassic Pier has proved a very popular addition to the attraction’s offer since the ribbon was cut by children’s TV presenter Andy Day.
“We had a fantastic time at the opening, and now we are looking for some more truly roarsome fun across this half term and the bank holiday,” he said.
“Our team are getting everything ready for the arrival of the prehistoric creatures and their handlers who will be making the journey from Tamworth in the West Midlands where they are based.
“Our rides will be open over all nine days, there will be live music outside the Boardwalk on both weekends and all we need is some good weather to complete the package.
“Make a note that on Sunday May 25 there will be a free dino-themed audio fireworks extravaganza lighting up the skies at around 9pm.”
Before that – at around 5pm – the pier is trialing its first ever short daytime fireworks display. It will last a couple of minutes as a test to see how it works for possible in inclusion in the future.
Tiny the Tyrannosaurus is Europe’s largest walking dino and is a massive 27ft long. Angie is the UK’s largest walking Ankylosaurus.
For those who might find them a bit overpowering there will also be a number of baby dinosaurs to meet and have photos with.
The whole event is being staged in conjunction with the award-winning Experiences Group, who also work with the pier at Oktoberfest and Halloween.
