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09th Aug 2022

Parent’s want Dick Turpin’s ride changed to something less offensive

Kieran Galpin

"Some parents did not take Dick’s return to he York Dungeon lightly, with the attraction receiving a number of requests for the character to be renamed to Richard due to the apparent rude nature of his nickname. "The York Dungeon, however, has remained firm in their stance, stating that the Dick Turpin show will remain in the same name, despite the complaints. This means guests will be able to experience all the thrills and chills of Dick’s darkened carriage without any changes."

‘We’re here to say that Dick, is here to stay’

Parents have called for a Dick Turpin ride in York to be renamed Richard Turpin because they are offended by the word “dick.”

The owners of York Dungeon received “a number” of requests for the name change “due to the apparent rude nature of his nickname.”

The Merlin-owned ride takes passengers on a carriage as they listen to real-life stories featuring 18th-century criminal Dick Turpin who was hanged in 1739 for crimes of burglary, theft and murder.

However some parents have taken issue with the name, spurring them to contact the dungeon in the hopes of a name change, reports Metro.

“The York Dungeon is renowned for revealing the deepest and darkest secrets of the city’s unique past – whether that includes Dick or not,” said general manager Mark Mattinson. “The character is one of our most frightful foes, and we know how much our guests enjoy interacting with him along with our other rogues and rascals throughout our shows.”

Via Getty

Claiming that “thousands of guests have already enjoyed this thrilling end to their visit”, Mattinson said that he was “shocked” to receive so many complaints.

“We’re here to say that Dick, is here to stay,” he added.

Similarly, the Dungeon itself hit back at the haters and said: “Some parents did not take Dick’s return to he York Dungeon lightly, with the attraction receiving a number of requests for the character to be renamed to Richard due to the apparent rude nature of his nickname.

“The York Dungeon, however, has remained firm in their stance, stating that the Dick Turpin show will remain in the same name, despite the complaints. This means guests will be able to experience all the thrills and chills of Dick’s darkened carriage without any changes.”

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