First look at new Alton Towers rollercoaster

The Wicker Man is the first wooden rollercoaster to be built in the UK for 21 years, with the unique thrill of fire.

The dramatic images reveal a spectacular six-storey structure that is 57.7ft high.

It features a human face on one side and ram’s head on the other, which bursts into flames as the train races through its chest.

More than 40,000 tonnes of soil has been excavated to build the new attraction and the track spans 2,000ft.

It is made from naturally treated timber, hand-carved specifically for the project.

Every ride will house two trains, each made up of six wooden carriages carrying 12 passengers.

The theme park in Staffordshire has invested £16 million into the creation of Wicker Man which has been in development for the last four years.

The new attraction will open to the public this spring.

Before boarding Wicker Man, riders will embark on a journey into the world of the Beornen, a secret community living in the woods around Alton.

Lured in by chanting, rhythmic sounds and unseen eyes watching them, guests will ‘be chosen’ to take part in the cinematic ‘pre-show’ before braving the ride itself.

Francis Jackson, operations director at Alton Towers, said: “Wicker Man is Alton Towers’ most ambitious project to date and we’re really excited to finally reveal our newest thrill attraction to the world.

"We’ve spent four years creating an experience that is truly spectacular by investing in the latest technologies which combine wood, fire and special effects to give riders the genuine feeling that they will be racing though flames.

"We can’t wait for everyone to experience Wicker Man when the park opens this spring.”

Visit altontowers.com/Wickerman for more information on the ride.