ADVENTURE Island has been named the fourth friendliest theme park in the world – ahead of Disneyland.

The iconic Southend seafront attraction was recognised by the global Golden Ticket Awards, held at the world famous Luna Park, on Coney Island, Ney York, on Sunday.

The awards honour the cream of the amusement industry and are based on an international poll by the Amusement Today newspaper.

Experts and enthusiasts from across the world nominate the best attractions in 25 categories.

Adventure Island was named fourth best in the ‘Friendliest’ category, and the best outside America.

Operations director for the park, Andrew Renton, said: “We’re often recognised for our high customer service standards and the experience we offer to our customers, but I must admit I had to double check that we were ranked number four in the world.

“I was almost speechless when the reply came back, saying ‘No, you didn’t come in fourth of five nominees.

“You came in fourth in the world. We just print the top five finalists. Every park can be voted on.”

The recognition followed a visit to the park by American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) earlier in the summer, with the delegation containing several members of the expert judging panel.

Mr Renton added: “There was a huge groundswell of support for Adventure Island and we leaped onto the charts. Incredibly, it also seems that our appearance on the list actually bumped Disneyland off it.”

The recognition is just the latest success for the park, which was ranked third overall in the annual TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards.

Tim Baldwin, communications coordinator for the Golden Ticket Awards, said: “To appear on the charts showcasing the top finalists is a huge accomplishment. Each park should feel so proud.

“I was thrilled to see Adventure Island be the only park outside of the United States to impress our voters so significantly.

“That really says a lot to the training of their staff to make sure families have a welcoming experience when visiting the park.”