The text is a transcript of a video about the history of the Black Hole, a roller coaster that operated at Alton Towers theme park in England from 1984 to 2005. The video describes the origins, features, incidents, and closure of the ride, as well as its replacement by the Smiler in 2013. The video also compares the Black Hole to other roller coasters, such as Space Mountain and Nemesis, and highlights its popularity and reputation among park guests.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Alton Towers attracts over two million visitors a year.
2. It was originally a hunting lodge reconstructed from a ruined castle in Staffordshire, England.
3. The lodge was split for the Earl Shrewsbury's family and for rent.
4. It was renovated into a permanent residence in the early 1800s, doubling its size.
5. The estate was expanded further by the Earl's nephew after 1827.
6. Alton Towers began as Albertan Lodge and was renamed several times.
7. An annual festival with fireworks and entertainment started in the 1890s.
8. Alton Towers Limited purchased part of the estate in the early 1920s for public use.
9. The British government used the land during World War II.
10. John Broome purchased a major share in Alton Towers Limited in 1973.
11. Large-scale permanent attractions were added in 1980, including roller coasters.
12. The black hole roller coaster opened in 1984, housed in two large tents.
13. The black hole underwent refurbishment one year after opening.
14. The black hole was dismantled and adjusted for new dual car trains in 1989.
15. Alton Towers introduced new thrill rides and improved theming in the 80s and 90s.
16. Nemesis, an inverted coaster by B&M, opened in 1994.
17. Oblivion, the world's first dive coaster, opened in 1998, causing retheming of Fantasy World to X-Sector.
18. The black hole closed in 2005 due to high maintenance costs.
19. The Smiler roller coaster replaced the black hole area and opened in 2013.
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