he former chief government of Merlin Entertainments, which owns Alton Towers, Legoland and Thorpe Park, has mentioned his knighthood exhibits the “importance” of the hospitality sector to the UK.

Sir Nick Varney, of Sturminster Newton, Dorset, has been knighted for companies to the customer financial system within the King’s Birthday Honours.

He mentioned: “I’m incredibly humbled and proud to have been awarded this accolade.

This enormous honour is shared with all those at Merlin both past and present, who were part of that amazing journey

“Having worked in the tourism and leisure industry for over 30 years, I have had the privilege of helping to build Merlin from a small British business to the global company it is today.

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“This enormous honour is shared with all those at Merlin both past and present, who were part of that amazing journey.

“Following the difficulties the hospitality and tourism industry experienced during the pandemic, this knighthood reinforces the importance of our sector to the UK, one which contributes more than £130 billion each year to the British economy.

“I’m proud to have played my part in that and will continue to champion and support this amazing industry.”

Merlin runs greater than 140 points of interest throughout 24 nations, with its well-known theme parks together with Peppa Pig World, Madame Tussauds and The London Dungeon.

In 2015, Merlin and Sir Nick got here beneath scrutiny when two youngsters wanted leg amputations after a 90mph collision with an empty carriage on the Smiler trip at Alton Towers.

The agency was fined £5 million after the crash for well being and security violations.

Sir Nick retired from the place in 2022, having helped Merlin bounce again from monetary difficulties throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

A spokesperson for the agency mentioned: “Nick played a vital role in building Merlin Entertainments into the incredible global success story it is today.

“Our family of 30,000 staff around the world feel proud that our founder has been recognised for his amazing achievement – not just for our company, but the wider industry sector.”