Tilly the cat and her love of canoeing on the Norfolk Broads

But Tilly the cat certainly seems to have a taste for the open water, after finding a love for canoeing on the Norfolk Broads.

The adventurous three-year-old took her first trip when she was just five months old and now joins owner Holly Hancock for a paddle at least once or twice a week in the summer months.

Holly Hancock with Tilly while canoeing in Horning (Image: Holly Hancock)

Ms Hancock, who is a keen sailor and law lecturer at the University of East Anglia, said: "Tilly has always been interested in what we are doing, following us around and doing things cats don't normally do.

"One day we thought we would try to take her out on the canoe and she absolutely loved it.

"She loves looking at all the wildlife. She's definitely a special cat."

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Tilly loves watching the wildlife as they meander along the river (Image: Holly Hancock)

Tilly gets taken on trips along waterways in and around Horning to quiet locations such as Hoveton Little Broad, where she can enjoy beautiful sunsets and birdsong, much to the surprise of passers-by.

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"People expect to see a dog on board but they often do a double take when they see Tilly and want to say hello," said Ms Hancock.

"She has come face to face with a swan a couple of times but they both seemed more surprised to see each other than worried.

"She is an indoor cat so it is great she gets to have some fresh air.

"She makes us smile every day."

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Tilly enjoying a summer sunset while canoeing in Horning (Image: Holly Hancock)

Ms Hancock has Tilly on a leash and has a carrier on board in case Tilly gets spooked and needs a place to hide.

After coping well meandering along the Broads on a canoe, it is hoped that one day the fluffy calico will try her paws at sailing.