These fantastic scenes were recorded at a North East tourist venue which was a heat 50 years ago - but this time we’ve turned them into full colour.
Thanks to the help of AI technology, we can share these wonderful views of Lambton Lion Park as not seen before.
They were taken in 1972, 1974 and 1977 and show cars, vans and buses touring the famous attraction which opened 54 years ago.
They also show the lions as they approached cars and as they relaxed in the fields at Lambton Park.
The elephants are seen welcoming visitors on their arrival and giraffes are enjoying a treat in another of these great views.
We hope you enjoy our trip back in time and we would love to hear from anyone who has memories of visits to Lambton Lion Park.
We would also love to hear from you if you have suggestions on which piece of our history we should turn into a colourised collection next.
Tell us more by emailing [email protected]
1. Saying hello
The elephants come to say hello to some of the visitors to Lambton Lion Park in August 1974. | se
2. Check it out
This inquisitive lion checks out a family in a car in a Sunderland Echo archive photo from July 1972. | se
3. The big opening in 1972
The Hon. Isobella Lambton cuts a tape to mark the official opening of Lambton lion park in July 1972. With her is Mr Jimmy Chipperfield. The lion park, had 40 lions and other wildlife animals on 200 acres of land back then. | se
4. Big turnout in 1974
A big turnout of visitors on a sunny day in August 1974. Look at the cars of the period and the people getting up close with the elephants. | se