The government declared earlier this week that zoos would be able to open from Monday, with obvious social distancing methods in place.

The zoo, which hosts creatures as diverse as white tigers, cheetahs, blue-winged kookaburras and aardvarks, has benefited from online crowdfunding campaigns, one of which raised more than £12,000.

Hamerton, near Sawtry, will initially open for members and season ticket holders from Monday to Wednesday, and the public from Thursday, June 18. Visitors (including season ticket holders and children aged three or less) will be required to buy tickets.

A statement on its website says: "Work has been going on at the park over the past few weeks to extend the measures we had already implemented prior to closure back in March, to ensure that your visit is as enjoyable and as safe as possible.

"Tickets will be limited in number each day, so that we can ensure that the park does not become over-crowded and make sure that social distancing is possible. Over a kilometre of hard paths and acres of mown grass lawns will give ample space to spread out and enjoy the countryside and our wonderful animals.

"Season ticket holders will be emailed a one-off promotion code to allow them to buy a £0.00 priced ticket at checkout for these 3 days. Please show this e-ticket on your phone and your season ticket at reception."

The announcement cleared up the mystery over whether zoos would be able to open soon, with an adjournment debate scheduled for the House of Commons today.

Peterborough Matters spoke to owner Andrew Swales shortly before the announcement, who described the situation as "very confused" with no answers. Thankfully, the next day, the best answer arrived.

For more information click here: https://www.hamertonzoopark.com/admission-prices/