Pleasurewood Hills Family Theme Park has raised £2,646 for the East Anglian Children's Hospice (EACH) through the sale of a giant fibreglass rattlesnake.

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The huge reptile, named Sid, had been part of the Lowestoft park's iconic Rattlesnake roller coaster.

He was moved from the park early this morning.

Kate Wood, Sales and Marketing Manager at Pleasurewood Hills, explained: 'After 30-odd happy years at the park Sid is now off to his new home in Great Yarmouth.'

The giant snake sold in a single week after being put up for auction via ebay.

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According to Mrs Wood once live, the auction simply 'went bonkers'.

The ride had originally closed for refurbishment last year but the work was unable to be carried out as the parts needed are no longer manufactured or available.

MORE: Iconic Rattlesnake ride at Pleasurewood Hills to closeMrs Wood explained that the closure was necessary, she said: 'Safety is absolutely paramount for us and while the decision was unpopular with some people it was the right decision to take it out to decommission.

'It was an iconic ride that had sadly come to the end of its life.'

She expressed her delight that the park was able to 'make good of the situation' as the money raised will now serve to support and care for children and young people with life threatening conditions.

Vicky Matthews, EACH Suffolk Corporate Fundraiser, has said the charity is 'delighted' to have benefited from the sale of the rattlesnake.

'Backing from the business community like this is invaluable as it enables us to continue providing our vital services, including short-break care, end-of-life care and bereavement support, to children, young people and their families.'

The rollercoaster initially opened in 1986 under the name Ladybird Coaster, but was remodelled and renamed as the Rattlesnake in 1990.

Pleasurewood Hills will re-open for its new season on Wednesday 5th April.

Mrs Wood added: 'The team have been working hard over the winter and are looking forward to welcoming everyone this season.'