Inside the ‘cursed’ American ghost village abandoned for 70 years that has been twinned with ALTON TOWERS

THRILL seekers can now explore a spine-chilling disused mine inspired by the world’s creepiest town.

Popular theme park Alton Towers is going all out for Halloween this year by twinning with American ghost town Bodie throughout the month of October.

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Abandoned since 1942, Bodie, in California, is widely considered to be one of the world’s creepiest places.

Bodie’s old mine shaft has been barricaded shut since it was closed in 1913 and the derelict buildings remain as they were left – scattered with decaying personal items and stocked with goods.

Legends from the deserted community include miners with black tongues, caused by exposure to poisonous materials, ghost mules that are said to appear deep underground and the Bodie Curse, which haunts anyone who removes any artefact from the town.

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The history, folklore and stories that haunt the town inspired Alton Towers to create Altonville Mine Tours – where the legend of hillbilly Skin Snatchers are said to live.

It will feature as part of the adventure park’s annual Scarefest celebrations, designed to give visitors the ultimate Halloween experience.

Described as one of the darkest places on earth, Bodie’s atmosphere will be replicated in the mine-themed maze, which will be lit by only a few helmet lamps.

Chris Carter, Head of Entertainments at Alton Towers Resort said: “Scarefest is renowned for creating terrifying experiences, this year wanted to draw inspiration from somewhere completely different to ensure that there is no other experience like it.

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“Altonville Mine Tours, and the real-world inspiration behind it, are sure to push the boundaries of what guests have experienced before and we’d advise that only those with a high tolerance for fear to take the tour.”

The twinning of the towns has been marked by a sign placed at the entrance of each town during October.

Scarefest is running on the October 8 – 9, 15–16 and October 21 – 31 and tickets can be pre-booked at .

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