By Cathy Sheel, Manchester Chamber

A MANCHESTER company is riding high, thanks to thrill-seekers searching for the latest in daredevil entertainments.

S and D Leisure, based in Cheetham Hill, supplies events and venues with the latest in adventure simulators - which allow users to experience exciting activities such as piloting a plane, skiing or motor racing.

And the company œ Europe’s largest independent operator of mobile simulation attractions - is leading the way in importing state-of-the-art ‘adrenalin rush’ rides into the UK.

According to MD Stanley Reeves, keeping up with the latest in simulators and white-knuckle rides is the key to the S and D success story.

‘‘Long gone are the days when people were happy with a ride on the waltzers. They want bigger, better and faster rides which will give them a real adrenalin rush.

‘‘We need to satisfy that need by keeping up to date with the latest technology on the market.’’

New ride

Proof of that commitment comes in the company’s latest purchase - a £300,000 Vortex ride, due to be imported from Italy later this year.

The daredevil machine - set to be one of UK’s largest white-knuckle rides - features passenger-carrying cars connected to the end of a 40-meter arm spinning in a circle at 60mph.

Once delivered the Vortex will be thrilling visitors at a number of major spectator shows, such as the International Truck Fest in Manchester and the British Motorcycle Federation annual show in Peterborough.

Nearer to home, one of S and D’s simulators has found a base at the Printworks in Manchester city centre and Stanley’s latest challenge is to see more of his rides installed at a number of local venues.

He added: ‘‘We know there is a huge demand for this type of entertainment.

‘‘Recently, one of our most popular rides has been our reverse bungee jump and our Red Arrows simulator.’’

As well as the popularity of adventure simulators among the general public, the company is also catering for an increased demand from the corporate market.

‘‘Our equipment has been used - and sponsored - by most of the big name multi-national companies, both at home and abroad," said Stanley, who formed S and D Leisure 15 years ago.

‘‘As the demand for more daring rides and entertainment increases, our company has gone from strength to strength.’’

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