ONE UK theme park has announced it will close early today as Storm Austen hits the country with winds up to 80mph.
Paultons Park which has been hosting late-night Halloween evenings will close early tonight.
On its website, it said: “Because of the forecast conditions from Storm Austen, we’ve cancelled tonight’s late night opening. The park will close at 4:30pm today.
“The safety of our guests and team always comes first, and we’re sorry for any disappointment.”
For those visiting today, tickets will be revalidated so you can come back another day.
Anyone who is booking to attend today but wants to change the day can do so free of charge.
Anyone on a short break will receive a return ticket and those with an annual pass can attend until 4.30pm.
At the Halloween Spooktacular visitors can go on the rides after dark, head to The Little Monsters Ball and go to the Spirit Squad Ghoul School.
For those who still want to go, the late-night events will still run on October 24, 27, 28 and 29.
Camel Creek Family Adventure Park in Wadebridge which is popular with younger families has also announced its closure due to “forecast of strong winds and heavy rain.”
The park will be in touch with those who have already booked a visit.
It hasn’t guaranteed that it will reopen on Saturday so has advised families to watch for updates on its social media and website for updates.
Meanwhile, Thorpe Park is open as is Alton Towers.
At Chessington World of Adventure, the Zufari appears closed on the app and there’s a temporary delay of the opening of Jungle Rangers.
A spokesperson for all three theme parks said that they are open and operating ‘in line with standard weather safety procedures’.
They added that ride availability can vary throughout the ‘day depending on operational and weather conditions, and any temporary closures are assessed by our expert technical teams on a case-by-case basis’.
Marwell Zoo has closed its doors for the day, it said: “The zoo will be closed due to strong winds and heavy rain forecast. We aim to reopen on Saturday 24th Oct as normal.”
Chester Zoo also announced its closure in order to keep “visitors, animals and staff as safe.” Dartmoor Zoo is also closed.
Storm Austen which has hit the UK today has resulted in schools closed and flights cancelled with the Met Office issuing amber and yellow weather warnings.