Tilly is part-Norwegian forest cat and although she is mainly an indoor pet, she started following her owner down the garden when she was about five months old "and wanted to get in the canoe".

"She's very adventurous and into everything, so I take her on the canoe and she just loves being out on the water," said Ms Hancock.

"I do put a harness on her, and take her little carrier - which is like a bed - so she can go in there if she wants but she is so intrigued by all the wildlife she usually just sits and watches.

"Seeing her brightens up everyone's day.

"People are so surprised to see a cat on a boat, whereas you see lots of dogs out on the water - I sometimes think Tilly thinks she is a dog."