Almost 40 years on, we take a walk down memory lane to the days when giraffes and elephants roamed in the Earl of Durham’s estate.
Did you ever visit? What are your memories?
5. Roaming around
1974. Elephants roam freely around the park, much to the joy of excited visitors Photo: Sunderland Echo
6. Saying hello
1972. A curious lion approaches a visiting car as it drives by on the road in 1972 Photo: Sunderland Echo
7. Breaking free
On February 27 1975, Jason the lion cub jumped from his cage and enjoyed a few hours of freedom rooming the park. John Hay, from Lambton Lion Park, keeps Jason in his sights as the cub enjoys a beef bone Photo: Sunderland Echo
8. Parent and baby elephant
1977. An elephant and its calf enjoy being brushed by one of the park’s keepers Photo: Sunderland Echo