Recognition for theme park boss who was to the Manor born
A THEME park boss who still gets a thrill from “watching our guests have fun, enjoying themselves, knowing I have played a part in that” has been awarded an OBE in the Queen’s New Year Honours.
Drayton Manor Park chief executive Colin Bryan, who is the son of the Staffordshire venue’s founders, has been recognised for his charity work and his ongoing contribution to tourism.
The 68-year-old has officially worked at Drayton Manor for 52 years, although he recalls his first job was a young boy, helping to clear rubble with his miniature wheelbarrow.
The park opened before his second birthday after his parents, George and Vera Bryan, purchased the former home of Sir Robert Peel in Tamworth. He became managing director in 1973 and it is now a £25m-turnover leisure business, which also includes a 150-bedroom hotel.
“This park truly is a family affair,” said Mr Bryan. “It began with my parents’ passion to create somewhere magical for people to visit after the war. It is our whole family’s life works and I couldn’t be more proud.”
In 2015, Mr Bryan promoted his son William to managing director, as part of the transition to the third generation of family ownership.
He added: “I have worked in nearly every department over the years and qualified as a chef to really understand what makes the park and catering companies what they are today. It is in my blood so I feel very honoured to receive this OBE. I still love watching our guests have fun, enjoying themselves, knowing I have played a part in that.”
Mr Bryan is also involved in a range of charity work including being a patron of the park’s main charity, KidsOut, and provides an annual fun day out for 5,000 disadvantaged, disabled and special needs children.
