IT is said to be the largest mobile Ferris wheel in the world and you need a head for heights to ride it.

Part of the Thunder Theme Park fair, which opens today on York's Knavesmire, it towers over other rides.

It stands 45 metres tall, weighs about 180 tons, and has to be hauled from place to place on eight HGVs.

Each of the cars holds up to eight people and it takes a team of workmen up to five days to assemble the pieces and put the ride together.

The wheel was built two years ago in the Netherlands and its appearance at York is the first time it has visited this country.

Showman Steve Graham said: "It really is a hugely impressive ride and I am sure it will prove a hit with everybody that takes a turn on it."

The giant wheel will be at the Knavesmire with the fair until June 9, and will then stay on to entertain the crowds at next month's York races.