I WAS interested to read the story headlined I Feared For My Life on Colossus (Daily Echo, April 19).

As an annual pass holder I have visited Thorpe Park hundreds of times in the last few years.

I have never been on Colossus without someone checking the safety belt and I have been on it more than 300 times.

It is an extreme ride and I think it's a bit unfair to criticise the ride operators.

Had Mrs Race Oak alerted the staff I feel sure they would not have allowed the ride to continue if her safety belt was undone.

On Colossus you get battered and thrown around - it's not for the faint hearted but that is part of the ride.

I have nothing but praise for the Thorpe Park staff and ride operators. They are courteous and good mannered.

There are two separate restraints on Colossus, the same as Nemesis Inferno and Stealth. The shoulder harness is the main one and the safety belt is a secondary safety device.

Once the shoulder harnesses are locked you are safe. Even without the belt there is no way you could fall out.

Safety at Thorpe Park is paramount.

MRS WELLS (by e-mail).