Steady drizzle and a poor forecast guaranteed a low turnout today. Those who made the effort were rewarded with an interesting ride via Lutton to Sparkwell, where the entrance to the Park was quickly discovered. One glance at the ticket prices reminded us why we had decided not to enter on previous visits, but we hadn't gone all that way in the rain to miss out again. An entry fee of £2-50 per person was negotiated - expensive for 1½ hours in the rain, but it did allow us access to the warm, dry restaurant with its very pleasant interior.

The park itself was well stocked with a wide variety of animals and birds, from lions, pumas and bears to otters, owls and birds of prey. In nicer weather we could imagine a good day's entertainment for a family.

With the rain still falling we were now in no mood for detours. We took the easiest route to the Erme Mill cafe at Ermington for very welcome refreshments and returned swiftly via Avonwick and Rattery/Totnes.