AN AMMANFORD man has returned to his Welsh roots to take on his dream role in charge of Oakwood Theme Park.

Phil Verbinnen, a former Amman Valley School boy, moved from Ammanford to join Ross on Wye-based PGL - Europe's largest provider of children's residential activity holidays.

Before taking up his new role at Oakwood Theme Park, Phil spent 12 years working at the various sites throughout the UK and France; most recently as Operations Manager at PGL's site in Surrey - one of the largest activity centres in the UK.

Phil said: “I am thrilled to be taking on the challenge of leading Oakwood Theme Park in what promises to be an incredibly exciting year ahead, not least with the forthcoming 20th anniversary of Megafobia, but also the continued investment across the park.

“The team are working incredibly hard to get the park ready for Easter opening, in what have been very challenging weather conditions.

“Much has been achieved already, but I’m looking forward to seeing the finished results over the coming weeks and months."

Set in more than 90 acres of spectacular Pembrokeshire countryside Oakwood is one of the UK’s leading theme parks with more than 30 exhilarating rides and amazing experiences to discover.

Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2016 the iconic wooden roller coaster Megafobia has been voted the best ride in the UK and the third best ride in the world by coaster enthusiasts.

With a top speed in excess of 75 kph and 25 metre drops towards a lake combined with unique crossovers the twister has attained legendary status among coaster fans worldwide.

Phil added: "Like PGL, Oakwood played an important part in my childhood, and it is an honour to have moved home to Wales to take on this great park."