Jenny Walker, 38, from Wetley Rocks near Stoke-on-Trent, has spent thousands of pounds to acquire an original fibreglass swan boat from the Alton Towers Swan Boats ride, which operated from 1987 to 2003. The boat was owned by the Lion Bar & Club in Walsall, and Walker convinced the licensee to sell it after months of negotiation.
Obsession with a childhood ride
Walker grew up riding the Swan Boats at Alton Towers, a gentle lake ride that carried up to nine visitors in giant white swans. She said: "It brings back so many happy memories of waiting in line with excitement to go on the ride." The ride closed in 2003, and the 16 swans were sold off, becoming prized collector's items.
Lengthy search and negotiation
Walker launched a hunt for a swan, contacting owners, collectors, and enthusiasts. Most refused to sell, wanting to pass them down generations. She found one at the Lion Bar & Club, where it was used as a stage and photo prop. Despite initial refusal, she bartered for months and eventually secured the deal. She said: "It was amazing, we were ecstatic."
Transporting the swan
The swan was transported home on a lorry along the M6, with motorists beeping their horns in recognition. Walker said: "Even when we were driving down the motorway with it, everyone was beeping their horns because they recognised it. It's so well-known and so loved."
Homecoming and family joy
The swan now has pride of place outside Walker's home, delighting her three-year-old daughter Summer Jane. Walker said: "[Summer Jane] went to nursery one day and when she got home, she just couldn't believe what was in the garden."
Value and rarity
Walker noted the soaring value of the boats: "One had recently sold on eBay and there was an offer - which was later retracted - for £500,000. We know that another sold in our town for £30,000." Despite the cost, she insists the swan will stay: "We're never going to part with it."
Previous connection
Walker's quest began after she bought a house that had been a local landmark due to an Alton Towers swan outside for 15 years. The swan was sold before she completed the purchase, prompting her to find another. She said: "I remember always seeing it as a child. Now I've got my own family, the house came up for sale - and we immediately knew it was the house with the swan."
