One in the eye for Piers Morgan as Dudley wheel beats 10,000 passenger target

The largest-ever big wheel to grace the Black Country has had its time extended for an extra two weeks due to its popularity.

Dave Carter, owner of Arcade Toy Shop, said: "It has been brilliant for us. The fact that we have been so popular, it has been one in the eye for Piers Morgan.

"It has certainly brought more people into the town. We have noticed customers in our shops that we have not seen before.

"We know people are coming into the town to see the wheel."

There are now plans to bring the Dudley Eye back next year following its success. Dudley Business Group was today meeting to discuss the proposals, which were expected to backed.

Steve Edwards, from the Only Way is Dudley, said: "The ride has been absolutely fantastic.

"There was a point where we got worried people were thinking it would not be as interesting as we hoped.

"But the response has been amazing, it is fantastic passing the 10,000 mark. Hopefully, after the meeting the attraction will be back again.

"It has brought so many people to the town, it is a great attraction, not only for the town but local businesses that have put money into it as well."

The Dudley Eye was due to close on April 10, but will remain open until 6pm on Sunday, April 24, after giving the town national attention when it was branded the 'worst tourist attraction in Britain'.

Outspoken presenter Piers Morgan had sparked anger in the town with his claim that there was 'no grimmer panorama' than Dudley.

Supporters of the attraction responded to his comments by turning out on April Fool's Day donning masks of the TV presenter.

The 35-metre high ride costs £4 for adults and £3 for children.