The arrival of the Springwatch cameras at Minsmere is set to bring a massive boost to Suffolk tourism as visitors come to see the area featured in the programmes.

Tourism chiefs are preparing for what could be a bumper summer – and will be hoping visitors can be persuaded to visit some of the county’s other attractions during their stay in the area.

County council leader Mark Bee, whose responsibilities include economic development, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase one of Suffolk’s major strengths, its natural environment.

“Minsmere is world-renowned and we have a strong working relationship with staff and managers there.

“But it’s not just about the environment. The reserve and surrounding area supports more than 100 jobs and is responsible for bringing in nearly £3million of tourism income each year.

“I fully expect Springwatch viewers, including those from Suffolk, will see the wonders of Minsmere and the Suffolk coast and be inspired to visit our remarkable county.”

Keith Brown, chief executive of Visit East Anglia, said: “Visit East Anglia and Visit Suffolk welcomes the forthcoming series of live broadcasts from Suffolk for the BBC Springwatch programme starting at the end of May.

“With a TV audience for the series running into tens of millions over the entire series, it will showcase not only the wonderful flora and fauna of the Suffolk Coast but also the whole county and indeed the rest of East Anglia.”

Visit Suffolk’s brand manager Amanda Bond highlighted the variety of wildlife that could attract visitors to the area.

She said: “Wildlife is big business in the UK with more than two million people now citing birdwatching as a hobby.

“With Minsmere home to more than 5,000 species ranging from badgers to bitterns and showcasing the natural beauty of the location, Springwatch – with its two million viewers per episode on primetime TV – stands as a fantastic advertisement for the county.

“Viewers are also encouraged to engage on social platforms which will hopefully drive traffic both to VisitSuffolk.com and social media channels for potential visitors to get further information on what else there is to do and see in Suffolk.”