92-year-old founder of East Mids theme park passes away

Audrey Rhodes with her grandson Connor

Retford-based Sundown Adventureland has announced the passing of its founder and visionary Audrey Rhodes, 92, who died in the early hours of Wednesday morning (March 24).

Audrey started Sundown Adventureland with her husband in 1968 from her back garden, and she was at its helm until her passing this week – running the business with her daughter Gaynor and her grandchildren.

Audrey died from a short illness, at her home within Sundown Adventureland’s grounds, where she has lived since she started the business in 1968. Her family were by her side.

Her grandchildren Debs and Shaun, and her daughter who have been managing the park with Audrey for several years said: “Sundown owes everything to this special lady who has been at its helm for 53 years. She has never retired and was as dedicated in her nineties as she was in her forties. She worked relentlessly around the park until the end.

“Everything about Sundown is down to Audrey and her vision. She was devoted to creating fun for children, providing them with somewhere truly special to make wonderful memories with their families. We will ensure that her legacy continues.”

“She will be very sadly missed by not only her devoted family but all of Sundown’s staff and our customers as well. She was always present on the park, chatting to everyone she met, and until recently, still enjoyed working in the gift shop. It was her passion, and her life and Sundown will always be dedicated to this very special lady.”

Click here to sign up to receive our new South West business news...
Close