THEY are one of Britain's rarest animals but despite their shyness otters have been captured on film in Winch-ester city centre.

The footage was captured on movement-activated cameras in Winchester's City Mill.

Otters returned in the 1990s to the River Itchen, which passes through both the National Trust-run mill and Winchester, but until now catching them on film has proven tricky.

However, with the help of the automatic cameras the frequency with which the otters pass through the mill has been revealed.

In October alone, the cameras were triggered 32 times, mostly in the dead of night, alth-ough one otter was seen as early as 7pm.

Experts from the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust are studying the footage to try and work out how many of the animals are actually using the "otter-run".

Cameras had been tried before without much luck but after a six-year gap, the newer higher definition cameras have proven a re-sounding success.

The cameras start rolling when movement sensors pick up a travelling heat source.

A spotlight illuminates the animals so the researchers can see whether they are simply using the mill as a route along the river or whether they are using it as a place to shelter and feed.

The National Trust's visitor services co-ordinator, Bob Goodwin, said: "Visitors are fascinated by this constant otter watch.

"It is astounding to have such a rare and secretive animal not only living on our doorsteps but in such an accessible place."

Graham Roberts of the Wildlife Trust, added: "This is a really exciting facility and it's fantastic to have such positive results."

Further details from the mill on 01962 870057 or from the wildlife trust at www.hwt.org.uk.