Merlin has made its biggest ever single investment in Alton Towers – the £18m coaster.

Secret Weapon Seven will have a capacity of 65 passengers with a top speed of 52mph (85kph) and a 30m drop.

The coaster, that will open on the site of the old Black Hole attraction, will have a track length of 1,170m and a ride time of 165 seconds.

The new ride, will add to the existing line up of white-knuckle rides such as Air, Oblivion and Rita.

A Spokesperson for Alton Towers Resort said: “Whilst the world first element of the ride is still under wraps, the rollercoaster is going to have elements that make it different from traditional coasters.

"As the UK’s number 1 theme park, Alton Towers Resort is always trying to push the limits with its rides and create attractions that give our guests a unique experience.”