Alton Towers says the swans have lost their appeal

The Swans ride has been given the chop because managers believe people are not interested in the ride any more.

The theme park claims customer surveys prove the 16 swans have lost their appeal with visitors.

The sedate ride, which featured the giant fibreglass swans riding along a track running beneath a lake, has fallen foul of thrill-seekers keen to try out more exciting attractions.

Mike Lorimer from Alton Towers said that although the ride had been a feature at the park since its introduction in 1987 it had to listen to the public's demands.

The swans have already been removed from the lake inside the entrance to Alton Towers.