Geoffrey Thompson 1936 - 2004: Geoffrey Thompson, was owner
& MD of the park until his death in June 2004. Geoffrey was no ordinary MD though, he
spent most of his life at the Pleasure Beach - his father was MD of the park, and his
mother, Mrs LD Thompson remained on the board of directors, until she sadly died on the
day of Geoff's funeral. Geoffrey became MD when Leonard Thompson died in 1976. He was a
member of the American Coaster Enthusiasts, Rollercoaster club of GB and the European
Coaster Club, welcoming enthusiasts to the park with new rides: GT was responsible for THE
BIG ONE, AVALANCHE, REVOLUTION, SPACE INVADER, STEEPLECHASE, amongst others. He was also
president of IAPPA (International Association of Amusement Parks & Attractions).
Whilst profitable!, he was also charitable (see auction above!), but his greatest
contribution is to the tourist industry in Blackpool & Southport - Geoffrey also owned
& directed Pleasureland, where he introduced the TRAUMATIZER. His daughter Amanda has
been appointed with his position, and brother Nick, as vice-MD of the park. |