RSPB Arne's largest volunteer project of the year, one of the biggest in the country, is just weeks away.

Hundreds of people are expected to visit the nature reserve - which featured on BBC's Autumnwatch and Winterwatch broadcasts - for the annual 'Pull a Pine' conservation day.

Every year members of the public are invited to help clear the small pine trees that grow across the peninsular, which if left unchecked, would shade out other heathland and threaten much of the reserve's protected wildlife.

The next day the reserve also hosts a mini Christmas fair.

RSPB Arne visitor experience manager Ed Chivers explained: "RSPB Pull a Pine is probably the largest conservation volunteering event in the country and you can be part of it.

"Plus, as a thank you for your hard work, you can take away your very own, hand-picked, locally sourced and sustainable Christmas tree.

"Hot food and drink will be available to purchase on site and there will be fun activities too."

Pull a Pine is scheduled for Saturday, December 1, with the Christmas fair on Sunday, December 2.

Mr Chivers said: "As the countdown to Christmas begins, we’re laying on a bumper festive weekend for visitors to enjoy.

"Pick and pull, or buy your own home-grown Christmas tree and help us give more nature a home in the process, start your Christmas shopping, and get in the festive mood with fun activities, tasty Christmas treats, and choir performances from local primary schools."

Sunday's Christmas fair will take place at the reserves's cafe garden.

"If you want to avoid the rush of Pull a Pine and still grab a tree, there will be pre-cut pines available for £15 suggested donation to the RSPB," said Mr Chivers.

Visit rspb.org.uk/arne for further details.