RSPB Blacktoft Sands is inviting visitors to explore the reserve at night in an exclusive after-hours event, as part of the RSPB’s Big Wild Sleepout.

Visitors will explore nocturnal wildlife at the nature reserve near Goole for the RSPBs annual challenge for people to pitch their tents to get closer to nature and discover night time creatures.

Blacktoft Sands is keeping its gates open later to help people kick-start their own sleepouts.

Visitors may spot spectacular species such as barn owls and marsh harriers and have the opportunity to hunt for bats with bat detectors.

Alex Jones, visitor experience officer at Blacktoft Sands, said: “The team here is delighted to be able to invite visitors to Blacktoft Sands after hours to see the reserve in a new light.

" Lots of our most spectacular creatures, such as barn owls, are best seen at dusk.”

The event will run from 8pm - 10pm on Saturday, July 29 and will cost £4 per adult/£1 per child for members, and £5 per adult/£2 per child for non-members.

Light refreshments will be available on the night.