A NEW tower hide has opened to showcase the views of the Avalon Marshes near Bridgwater.

Organisation, Natural England, launched the facility on April 28 at Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve, which is a wildlife site and home to rare species like bittern, bearded reedling and marsh harrier.

The new hide was designed by Shattock Associates of Bridgwater and has been built with donations from supporters of the reserve during a crowdfunding campaign in December 2015.

Over £17,000 was raised to build the new hide.

The tower hide is located just a short distance from the Ashcott Corner car park.

Simon Clarke, senior reserve manager for Natural England at Shapwick Heath NNR, said: "The public support we received in December was phenomenal and very humbling.

"It’s provided us with the funds to create an incredible new hide that will really enhance the experience for all visitors to the reserve and allow them to enjoy a very special wetland.

"I’d like to thank everyone that has donated to the project, the really hard work of the contractors who’ve built the hide, and all those who have made this possible."

The opening ceremony was attended by more than 40 supporters of the project.

The hide itself was opened by Dr Andy Clements, director of the British Trust of Ornithology and board member for Natural England.

Dr Clements said: "Shapwick Heath National Nature Reserve and the surrounding Avalon Marshes are one of England’s great wildlife success stories.

"I’m delighted to open this stunning new tower hide.

"It will provide greater opportunities for people to see the world class birdlife and enjoy sweeping views across the Somerset Levels."

The Avalon Marshes attract over 100,000 visitors every year who come to Somerset to see the diversity of wildlife and scenery.