A RESTORED sailing barge is playing host to a series of birdwatching events on the Stour Estuary.

There are three remaining trips for twitchers onboard the Thames sailing barge, Victor.

The barge was built in 1895 and was used to transport linseed from farms, as well as for conyeving munitions to warships during the Second World War.

It even had a brief stint as a strip club in the 1960s.

RSPB warden, Mark Nowers, said: “The birdlife on the Stour Estuary peaks during the cold winter months.

“Around 30,000 ducks, geese and waders move south from their Arctic breeding grounds to the relatively mild climes of eastern England.”

The trips take place on January 4 and 19 and February 4.

Trips cost £35 per person, and booking is essential.

Call 01473 328006 or e-mail stourestuary@rspb. org.uk for further information.