THIS weekend's predications for giant Severn bores – perhaps the biggest of the year – comes with a warning that only the most experienced should attempt surf rides.

While Environment Agency officials and coastguards will be out in force to watch out for the threat of flooding, the top bore riders look certain to take on the dangerous challenge in the Newnham area.

Stuart Ballard, spokesman for the Bore Riders Club, said that because the river was brimful with flood water, only the most experienced should attempt the ride.

He said: "Those without considerable local knowledge should leave it alone. The flood water will almost certainly restrict the size of the bore at Minsterworth but it promises to be excellent at Newnham. For the less experienced there are plenty of opportunities throughout this year."

Those concerned over the threat of flooding will be keen to watch weather forecasts and anxious there will not be a repeat of the low pressure and gale force south-westerly winds which accompanied the bore in the first week of January.

The biggest tides are predicted for Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

The times for Newnham are:

Friday 0706 and 1932 (both 9.8 metres); Saturday 0752 and 2016 (10.2 and 10.00 metres); Sunday 0835 and 2058 (10.3 and 9.9 metres); Monday 0916 and 2136 (10.00 and 9.5 metres).

Watchers should arrive at least 20 minutes before predicted times and stay well clear of the water.