Alton Towers bosses have said a brand new Scarefest maze will give a terrifying insight into their next major rollercoaster.

Construction of the huge rollercoaster codenamed Secret Weapon Eight (SW8) is well under way.

And, as the attraction's Scarefest Halloween season approaches, park chiefs have announced the new The Welcoming: Be Chosen maze is linked to the wooden 'coaster.

An Alton Towers spokesman said: "The Welcoming: Be Chosen joins the terrifying line-up and is set to not only be a petrifying experience in itself, but also providing a first glimpse into the Resort’s new attraction for 2018.

"The woods surrounding the village of Alton harbor a mysterious group, which until recent sightings were unseen by the modern world.

"Whispers around the village say that the group are angered by people abusing the world’s natural resources and the rapid advance of technology.

The new Alton Towers ride, Secret Weapon 8, or SW8, is under construction
The new Alton Towers ride, Secret Weapon 8, or SW8, is under construction

"Every year the secluded group host a festival to celebrate their own interpretation of Halloween – paying homage to the earth and celebrating the crossover between the living world and the dead.

"The group have recently infiltrated the Alton Towers Resort and for the first time are allowing outsiders to celebrate with them. But what part will you - the 'outsiders' - play in this ritual?"

The new maze, which is suitable only for those aged 15 and above, will be joined by a host of frighteningly-fun attractions. The park will be open until 9pm on October 7, 8, 14 and 15, then from October 20 to 31.

As well as the Scarefest material, which includes comically-terrifying actors and spooky scenery, some rides will be accessible.

Alton Towers Scarefest 2016. Pictured is the Altonville Mine Tours attraction
Alton Towers Scarefest 2016. Pictured is the Altonville Mine Tours attraction

The Towers spokesman said: "With spooks, frights and thrills for everyone. On selected dates in October, the theme park becomes home to Halloween, remaining open until 9pm so you can enjoy your favourite rides in the dark plus loads of extra entertainment.

"For spooky young visitors, there are live shows and our famous freaky four to meet, while older families will enjoy our House of Monsters maze and Freak Show scare zone. For the bravest, dare you enter our terrifying scare mazes?"

Scare Maze tickets start from £8, and can be prebooked at here. Theme Park tickets are available from £32 for an adult and £27.50 for a child and can be booked online at here

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