People across the West Country are expected to see the UK’s most dramatic solar eclipse since 1999 on 12 August, when the Moon will obscure up to 95% of the Sun in some areas. Although Britain will not lie within the path of totality, the event is significant because the next total solar eclipse visible from the UK is not expected until 2090.

Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly should see around 95% coverage, while Bristol, Somerset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire are expected to see about 90%. In the West Country, the eclipse will begin at 18:17 BST, peak at 19:12 and end at 20:06; astronomers advise choosing elevated locations with a clear western horizon, subject to weather conditions.