Surfers prepare for the big bore

Surfers from around the country ride the Severn Bores

Surfers are travelling from across the country to Gloucestershire to ride some of the biggest Severn Bores this year.

The bore is caused by the incoming tide being funnelled up the narrowing Severn Estuary, and on Saturday one of the biggest of the season is expected.

Steve King, one of the surfers, said the unpredictable nature of the bore was all part of the excitement.

"Every day it changes, although you can predict the tide you never know how big the wave will be or what shape."

Mr King took to the river on Friday morning just after dawn to get some practice in ahead of Saturday's tide.

He said: "We managed just over two miles on Friday's bore. It wasn't a bad tide especially towards Gloucester when the wave started to pick up."

BBC meteorologist, Richard Angwin said Friday morning's bore was enhanced by the brisk winds blowing up the river, helping to build the tidal wave.

"Although tomorrow's [Saturday's] predicted southerly winds will not help in the same way, the bore itself is predicted to be slightly stronger so it should be just as good," he added.