Let’s celebrate summer! Spring has finally arrived, and as midsummer’s day approaches, there are signs of new life everywhere, as visitors to RSPB Havergate Island nature reserve will discover on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 June 2010.

The ‘Signs of new life on Havergate’ event is an excellent opportunity for visitors to explore this unique landscape to admire scarce saltmarsh flowers and nesting birds with the help of knowledgeable RSPB guides. The event starts with a boat trip from Orford Quay, followed by a guided tour of the island, and lasts for four hours.

Havergate Site Manager, Aaron Howe, said, “There’s no better time to visit Havergate than early summer, when the island is a blaze of colour from flowering thrift and sea lavender. These flowers, in turn, attract a myriad of butterflies, moths and other pollinating insects.

“You’ll also experience the cacophony of sound from the lagoons, where hundreds of gulls and wading birds are nesting. By mid June there should be lots of hungry chicks begging for food from overworked parents. We’ll show you all these and help you to discover why Havergate is such a special place.”

Places are limited on this event, so advance booking and payment are essential. Boats depart Orford Quay at 9.00 am and 1.00 pm am each day. Tickets cost £15 per person, or £12 for RSPB members, and should be reserved by calling the Minsmere visitor centre on 01728 648281.

For further information about visiting Minsmere call 01728 648281 or visit www.rspb.org.uk/minsmere.