The official opening of the English Riviera Wheel at Princess Gardens, Torquay takes place on Friday 27 May at 10 am following the public opening of the attraction at noon on Thursday 26 May.

The installation of the 60 metre high structure - taller than Nelson’s Column - took a ten strong team ten days to complete, using high-tech hydraulic equipment, cranes and heavy lifting gear to build the 320 tonne structure; delivered by lorries designed to carry some of the heaviest loads permitted on British roads.

Time-lapse footage of the complicated construction is available to watch at https://youtu.be/Ki-DzEXqRz8.

Wonderful views

The English Riviera Wheel has been enthralling locals and visitors alike with magnificent and unparalleled views across Torbay for four years. Over that time hundreds of thousands of people have stepped aboard one of its 40 enclosed gondolas, which carry six people at a time, including wheelchair users.

Now entering its fifth year of operation on Torquay’s seafront, the English Riviera Wheel will be open from 10 am until 10 pm during the upcoming school summer holidays and from 10 am until 8 pm during non-school holiday periods.

It opens for the first day of business at noon on Thursday 26 May.

Torbay’s Mayor Gordon Oliver said: "The English Riviera Wheel has become a much-loved local landmark and attraction, enabling many thousands of people to see and experience the natural beauty of Torbay. It is wonderful to have it returning again this year and we look forward to welcoming visitors to the Bay this summer season to enjoy all that the area has to offer.”

Mellors Group Director James Mellor said: “We have been really looking forward to returning to Torbay with the English Riviera Wheel. It has proved very popular during its four previous visits to the Bay and has given the area’s profile a much deserved boost. We hope that residents, tourists and businesses will once again support us.”

For further information and booking online visit www.englishrivierawheel.co.uk Opens in a new window.

For access to the time-lapse footage, please contact joanne.penhaligon@torbay.gov.uk.