THE Severn Bore is a spectacular natural wonder that occurs in the River Severn estuary.

It is a large surge wave which can reach heights of up to 50 feet.

It is created when the rising tide moves into the funnel-shaped Bristol Channel and Severn Estuary.

The surging water then forces its way upstream in a series of waves, reaching as far as Gloucester.

The world-famous event sees surfers from all over the world compete to ride the bore for the longest time.

The largest bores are the best for surfing and these usually only occur about four or five times a year.

The best places to watch the bore are at Minsterworth, Stonebench and Over Bridge, before the river splits into two.

But the early stages of the bore can also be seen at Epney, Newnham and Fretherne.

This year there will be a five star bore – the largest - on September 30, which is predicted to reach 10.3 metres.

There will be eight four star bores: on February 22 and 23, March 22 and 23, September 1 and 2 and 29 plus one on October 1, which are expected to reach between 10 and 10.2 metres.