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The day began a tad overcast, but warm. Not ideal weather to set sail in, but good enough for those of us hardy enough. To join in the record attempt, you had to fill out an official form, and then go and hand it in to a set of eagle eyed adjudicators, who would judge you on your eligibility as pirate material. No blue jeans or white trainers allowed here - so, despite Alton Towers handing out free 'pirate starter kits', it was still going to be a tough time for Alton in the world record attempt.

The range of costume went from the superb (the Whitby International Pirate Society turned out in force), to the kid friendly costumes, to 'it'll do'. There was a wide range of people and standards, but all were in high spirits and gathered together en masse for a photo shoot.

For the world record, sadly, that's about as far as things went - high spirits and some great atmosphere. There were just over five hundred pirates recognised by the Guinness World Records adjudicators, which fell around five hundred short of the official record. It was a UK record though, so not all was lost.

As well as the World record attempt, today marked the opening of the new Alton Towers area - Mutuny Bay. This is a retheme of the Merry England area. Though not a great deal was required to convert the area, the new items are excellently made. The teacups look great as gunpowder barrels now, and everything has had a bit of spit and polish. Unfortunately the new Rock'n'Tug ride - Heave Ho - was still under construction, but it looks like it will fit the area excellently.

Of course, the highlight of the new area is Battle Galleons - the new multi-million pound family attraction. Eight hardy sailors man a boat and set out along the treacherous islands in search of... Well... If they're looking for water, they'll be happy. The new ride has hand pumped water cannons for each seat on the boat, and the queue line also has similar guns along it. The pumps work very well, which means that everyone - riders and those queueing alike - get absolutely soaked to the skin. The ride is possibly one of the absolute wettest in the country. Be warned if it's a bit chilly (like today), but in the summer, it will be a fantastic attraction.

So Alton may not have managed to break the World record, but they've got a superb looking, and great fun, new attraction on their hands. One thing's for sure, there'll never be as many scurvy dogs in the one place again - at least until the CoasterForce Live at Alton in August.

Alton Towers Website

Pirate World Record Attempt Details

Read the trip reports of the day