NORTH Yorkshire visitor attraction Lightwater Valley has welcomed an 11 per cent increase in year-on-year visitor numbers over the Easter period.

The rise comes after a £350,000 investment in a new Jurassic Adventure Golf course and Vintage Car Rally ride which are due to open at the theme park near Ripon in May.

Next month also sees the first ‘Adrenaline Weekend’ take place with rally challenge, zip wire and bungee jumping experiences.

Mark Bainbridge, general manager at Lightwater Valley said: "It’s been a really positive start to the season with thousands already visiting since the gates opened at the end of March.

"The Ultimate - Europe’s longest rollercoaster and the Angry Birds activity park are as popular as ever, with our Falconry packages and new Pop Circus show also attracting visitors."