A BRAVE grandmother who suffers from dementia fulfilled her ambition to ride the UK’s tallest and fastest roller coaster.

Carol Parkinson, dreamed of riding The Big One at Blackpool Pleasure Beach, which stands a daunting 235ft tall.

The 70-year-old wanted to go on the rollercoaster, which can reach speeds of up to 87 miles per hour, before her dementia became too severe.

Mrs Parkinson, who lives at Belvedere Manor, in Colne, along with the care home manager, Tony Grundy, were strapped into the front seats for the special occasion.

The event was part of the home’s ‘seize the day’ initiative, aiming to help care staff do their best to fulfil resident’s ambitions.

Mr Grundy said: “Carol had a fantastic time, she really enjoyed herself.

“We went to Blackpool the other week and she said she wanted to ride it, so we thought we could try make it happen.

“We were sat at the front and when we got to the very top she jokingly said ‘I’ve changed my mind’, and went round the whole thing with her eyes closed.

“The staff at Blackpool Pleasure Beach were amazing and very kind.

“Carol got to take home a metal plaque and a picture as a memory of her day.

“It was quite nerve wracking because I was worrying about Carol while dealing with the rollercoaster.

“But at the end of the day she was happy, and that’s we want.”

Mrs Parkinson was one of the first people to ride the Revolution when it arrived in Blackpool in 1979.

The Big One is one of the longest rollercoaster rides, measuring more than a mile.

Mr Grundy, from the Gibfield Road home, said: “We try to ensure residents live life to the full, and we will champion and support any wish our residents want to do.

“Carol was cleared by her doctor and family to go ahead with the ride.

“She was invited back to have a go on the Big Dipper and the Grand National, but she said she didn’t fancy it.”