VISITORS went in two-by-two to see the animals return to their newly refurbished home in Heaton Park.

The Farm Centre has re-opened along with a number of new visitor facilities in the park following an £8 million restoration project.

The project, funded by a Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) grant, has taken 18 months to complete and includes restoration of some existing attractions plus some brand new ones.

An open day will be held on Sunday, March 20 so visitors can see the park in all its splendour and there will be entertainment from Punch and Judy and the Moston and Beswick Band.

Animal-lovers will be able to see Gloucester Old Spot and Saddleback Pigs making themselves at home in the Farm Centre, along with Saanen goats, Hebridean sheep and Alpacas.

Children will get the chance to handle smaller pets such as rabbits and guinea pigs, while the new Stables Cafe will be open for refreshments.

Other improvements in the park include a newly built Lakeside Cafe, repairs to the tram track which will be able to take passengers around the park, a new childrens play area and refurbishment of the two historic lodges, Grand Lodge and Smithy Lodge.

Smithy Lodge is now available for holiday lettings, golfing breaks and wedding parties who hold a reception in Heaton Hall.

The parks grounds have also been altered to recreate the historic rolling landscape which had been covered by trees and shrubs.

Coun Mark Hackett, executive member for leisure and culture at Manchester City Council, which owns the park, said: "This is a milestone for parks and green spaces, not only in Manchester but throughout the UK.

"Parks are important for leisure and recreation in our city and are highly valued in the community. It is wonderful to see Heaton Hall in its maginificent and original setting. It presents one of the finest views in England."

HLFs regional manager Tony Jones added: "By restoring the park we can ensure that it really reaches its full potential as a haven and place of enjoyment. Weve been delighted to support the project. It's going to be a fantastic asset for the local community."