Puy du Fou is best in the world

FRENCH theme park Puy du Fou has been voted the best in the world - the first time a French park has won the industry's "Oscar".

The Vendée park, between La-Roche-sur-Yon and Angers, was chosen ahead of 700 parks and shows in 40 countries to receive the Thea Award at a ceremony in Los Angeles.

Following in the footsteps of The Artist which was the first French film to win the best film Oscar, Puy du Fou won for its creativity and quality of the park and its shows - plus the daring performances of the actors.

The Themed Entertainment Association jury said that it was a unique destination in the world with its spectacular themed shows.

Another French theme park, Futuroscope near Poitiers, was commended in the awards for its show Arthur, L'Aventure 4D.

Puy du Fou was created in 1977 by 27 year old student Phillippe de Villiers, at Les Epesses with the first show, Cinéscénie. It has grown to welcome more than 1.5 million visitors a year.

This year that first show - a spectacular telling the history of a Vendée family with sword-fighting and horseback acrobatics - celebrates its 35th anniversary.