Alton Towers to auction Charlie and the Chocolate Factory ride memorabilia for charity

The ride, situated in Cloud Cuckoo Land, closed at the end of the 2015 season to make way for new attractions within the Staffordshire-based theme park.

And now Roald Dahl and theme park fans alike have the chance to own a piece of the park's history.

Going live at 9am tomorrow with a starting price of just 99p and no reserve, the 37 choco-lots include Oompa Loompas, giant inflatable blueberries, squirrels, a chocolate covered Augustus Gloop and other life-size characters, as well as quirky signage including The Inventing Room and Juicing Room.

Monies raised from the auction will go to Merlin’s Magic Wand, a children's charity that supports children facing challenges of serious illness, disability or adversity, and Roald Dahl's Marvellous Children's Charity that funds Roald Dahl Specialist Children's Nurses in communities across the UK.

Kate McBirnie, who is heading up the auction at Alton Towers Resort, said: “We are really excited to give people the chance to own some Charlie and the Chocolate Factory ride memorabilia.

"It’s such a unique array of fun and quirky items. It will be fantastic to learn about where the items are re-homed and how they are used in businesses, homes and other venues moving forwards.

“The auction is also a golden ticket this Valentine’s for any Roald Dahl or theme park fans. It’s quite the sweet treat.

“In 2017 we auctioned off our log flume boats, to make way for our new Wicker Man ride, which are now being used as beds, plant pots and even a motor boat in locations across the UK.

"The sale of the boats helped us raise over £20,000 for charity, so we are excited to see what this new auction will bring.”

From next month the former ride will be unveiled as the new Alton Towers Dungeon, providing thrillseekers and families with a journey through Staffordshire’s darkest history.

To take part in the auction, click here.