THE highest predicted tides of the year are expected to draw surfing enthusiasts from across Britain to ride the Severn bore this weekend.

Upwards of 200 people are being forecast to take on the challenge – and there is sure to be a party atmosphere.

Bore riders are taking the opportunity to state their opposition to a Severn barrage by holding linked events at Broadoak's White Hart Inn and Over. Under the banner 'The Magnificent Severn' there will be talks and displays giving details of the river's heritage.

Organiser Stuart Ballard says the event has created considerable interest.

The series of high tides will present a rare high summer opportunity for bore riders and, in addition to the surfers, the bores are expected to prove a big draw for holiday makers and local people.

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

Organisers are warning people to take great care not to get too close to the water's edge and to park sensibly and safely. The advice is also to arrive early.

Friday's tide times for Newnham are predicted for 0827 and 2044.

Saturday's predictions are for 0909 and 2126 and Sunday's for 0949 and 2203.

For Broadoak add on 10 minutes and for Minsterworth add on an hour.

The 'Magnificent Severn' event at Broadoak will include a showing of the film 'Longwave' made by Littledean man Donny Wright. Top surfers Steve King and Stuart Matthews will also be on hand to speak about bore riding on the Severn, the Amazon and in China.

There will be a bigger event at Linton Farm, Over, where there will be talks and stories about the secrets of the Severn, a display of salmon fishing and discussions on the river's potential to produce energy.