A 'NON-VERBAL' teenager from Reading who can name all of the rides at Thorpe Park was the first person through the gates of the theme park when it reopened on Monday (April 12).
In line with the latest government guidance, Thorpe Park Resort reopened on Monday, with competition winner and self-proclaimed UK’s biggest theme park fan, Kian Davy, the first through the gates.
The first to step foot onto the island as the park reopened, Kian was the winner of a nationwide Thorpe Park competition to identify the UK’s biggest theme park fan, with his entry showcasing his passion for the park, including photos of his Swarm-themed 16th birthday cake and park memorabilia.
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Riding THE SWARM before any other member of the public this year, Kian was able to experience all the park has to offer as the first through the gates, in a truly exclusive experience which also saw him take home a Thorpe Park Annual Pass, enabling him to relive his special moment time and time again.
Kian at Thorpe Park on Monday
Kian’s mum, Vicky, said: “Winning this competition means so much to Kian.
"He has many health issues, including autism, and despite being non-verbal, he always talks about the time he spends at Thorpe Park and can name all the rides.
"When he’s at Thorpe Park he rides with no fear and he has spent every video call with his class during the pandemic showing them his collection of Thorpe Park merchandise and talking to them about all the rollercoasters.
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"His teacher was so shocked he could speak that she spent the entire class letting him show his photos and memorabilia collection, including his Stealth and Swarm cups, which are the only cups he will drink from.
"Winning this competition has been such a highlight for Kian – he has said that he won’t let his health or a pandemic stop him enjoying himself at Thorpe Park, and plans to be there as much as possible this year, making the most of his Annual Pass!”
Thorpe Park Resort is open from April 12 to November 1, 2021.
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