People heading out on the Broads can now use their mobile phones to ensure they are up to date with tide times.

The Broads Authority is trialling a new text message service, letting people know the best time to reach the mouth of the River Bure at Great Yarmouth during May and June.

For the cost of 6p, plus a standard message rate, boaters can text the word 'Tide' to the 60777 to receive the predicted low slack water times at Great Yarmouth Yacht Station along with sunset times for that day and the next.

Breydon Water should always be crossed during slack water - which is about an hour after low water - to ensure boats can fit under Yarmouth's bridges and because the tide, particularly at the confluence of the Rivers Bure and Yare, will be less of a hazard.

Steve Birtles, head of safety management at the Authority, said: 'Tide tables can be found in the visitor magazine, the Green Book. However, the telephone text can provide an instant and hassle free service for the boater, resulting in a more relaxing trip over Breydon. If it is successful we will consider making the service permanent.'

The Green Book booklet is sold by the Broads Authority for £1. Tide tables are also available online at www.broads-authority.gov.uk.