NINE Severn bores forecast as 'four stars' are expected to bring out the crowds once again in 2011.

The big tides mainly occur around the spring and autumn equinoxes.

Though the New Year does not include a 'five star' prediction, surfers say the lesser tides frequently produce the best bores.

Spokesman Stuart Ballard said bore riders had celebrated news that the government had decided against supporting a barrage project. But he warned against complacency and said the project, though proved to be flawed, still had supporters.

"In the short tearm it is great news for the river. It means the spectacle, culture and wonder of the Severn is preserved for all to enjoy," he said.

Mr Ballard said 2010 had been a busy year on the river with big tides, big bores and big crowds.

Hundreds of people had braved freezing conditions to witness the only 'five star' bore of the year while in September the big tides had attracted professional surfers from all over the world for the 'Magnificent Severn' event.

They included Sergio Laus, the world record holder from the Amazon, who joined the Severn's former record holder Steve King, the European longboard champion Russell Winter and the world famous big wave surfer Andrew Cotton on a celebratory tide.

The first significant bore tides of the 2011 will be on the weekend of January 22 and 23.

There are 9.6 metre tides on both days.

The bore is expected at Newnham on Saturday at 0833 and on Sunday at 0913. Add on an hour for Minsterworth.