In the UK our selection of wildlife is as varied as it unique.

And for plenty of people, to see many of the creatures that inhabit our tiny island would take trekking hundreds of miles from city districts towards the shoreline.

But in Burnham-on-Crouch and its surrounding areas, right on the doorstep is the opportunity to see pods of seals lounging around on the mudflats.

Various organisations offer the opportunity to see the magnificent mammals in the flesh on licensed boats.

Local wildlife photographer Russell Savory who has appeared on Springwatch, said: “We just don’t know how lucky we are to be living in the area we do.

“The wildlife in the surrounding area is so in abundance here that we are extremely fortunate.

“Many people in the UK who would want to see these creatures would have to travel a long way indeed.”

Maldon district hotspots for seal watching include Mundon Stone Point on the Blackwater, and the mouth of the River Crouch.

If you  would like to see the seals call 01268 491540.