A NEW guide to birdwatching by train alongside the Exe Estuary has been published by a local group.

A NEW guide to birdwatching by train alongside the Exe Estuary has been published by a local group.

The RSPB and Avocet Line Rail Users Group have just published a leaflet describing the best birdwatching sites on the estuary from Topsham to Exmouth that are accessible by rail on the Avocet Line.

Tony Day, chair of the users group, said: "Our group campaigns for better services, such as station improvements and longer, newer trains.

"We also want to encourage travel on the line, especially off peak when there are empty seats.

"One of the big attractions on the branch is the estuary views - almost unbroken after Topsham - and the opportunity to watch a huge range of different birds throughout the year".

The guide has been published in conjunction with First Great Western, Devon and Cornwall Rail Partnership, Exmouth Town Council and the Exe Estuary Partnership the

The leaflet is now available from railway stations and tourist information.