PEOPLE in Dorset are being offered the chance to see river and harbour wildlife up close with the RSPBs winter boat cruises starting this November.

The RSPB Dorset will be holding their boat cruises from November to March 2016 in Christchurch in the east of the county.

Cruises last for approximately two hours and run from 10am every fortnight, starting from Sunday November 1.

Morwenna Alldis, spokesperson for the RSPB, said: “Fed by the rivers Avon and Stour, Christchurch Harbour was formed over 7,000 years ago at the end of the last Ice Age.

“This historical and beautiful place is a thriving home for all sorts of wildlife and stepping onboard the RSPB Christchurch Boat Trip is the perfect way to get up-close-and-personal with some of its wild residents.

“Boat trippers will be able to see lapwings, little egrets, ducks, geese and other water birds. Lucky sailors may even catch a glimpse of a stunning kingfisher as it flies past the boat on the hunt for a tasty fish or two.

“Best of all, visitors will be joined onboard by an RSPB expert guide, whose knowledge of the local wildlife will thrill visitors of all ages and make the boat trip even more memorable.”

Booking is essential. For more information call Paul Derham at Mudeford Ferries on 07968 334441.