Staff at RSPB Bempton Cliffs are running special events focusing on the thousands of gannets and puffins which make the rugged spot their summertime home.

The reserve is one of the few mainland sites where both species breed together. It also hosts the largest, mainland breeding colony of gannets in the whole of England with as many as 9,000 birds living on the cliffs at the same time.

Ken Proud, visitor officer, said: “With a supporting cast of kittiwakes, guillemots and razorbills, we can guarantee a blockbusting show of seabirds that will set the senses reeling. The sight, sound – and even the smell – of more than 200,000 seabirds is one not to be missed.”

The reserve’s Springwatch free guided walks are Gawp at Gannets on Saturday between 2pm-3.30pm and an evening Puffin Patrol on Sunday between 6pm-7.30pm.

Booking is essential on (01262) 851179 for both events.

Further Puffin Patrols will take place on Saturday, June 21, between 2pm-3.30pm and Sunday, June 22, between 6pm-7.30pm.