COTSWOLD Wildlife Park has announced it will reopen next Wednesday.

The attraction, based near Burford, will welcome visitors from 10am on June 17, but indoor exhibits, the shop, restaurant and train are to remain closed.

Reggie Heyworth, the park's managing director, revealed it was 'unexpected but very welcome news'.

"Until 48 hours ago, we were told clearly that the next review date of the closure of zoos was not until 4th July," he said.

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"We are so relieved to be able to look forward again to welcoming visitors.

"However, our relief is cautious and we would ask all our visitors to show kindness and respect to each other in keeping social spacing during their visit."

The shop and self-service cafeteria are likely to remain closed until the end of the month due to shortages of perspex and other suitable screening and PPE materials.

Visitors are allowed to bring picnics and kiosks will be open, while the park is encouraging the use of E-tickets to minimise cash handling.