AN island paradise on the River Avon is set to go under the hammer later this year.

Osier Island is an isolated land mass, featuring a timber two-bedroom property and moorings, on the River Avon near Wyre Piddle.

The new owner can expect peaceful bliss and tranquillity in the unique location, and a different way of life as the home, Osier Lodge, is not connected to any main services and only reachable by boat.

Current owner Helen Osborne uses solar panels for electricity, bottled gas for cooking and a wood burning stove for heating. Rainwater is caught in a holding tank and waste water discharged directly in a soakway.

"Living here really is wonderful, it is like going back 50 years," Ms Osborne said

"You see some amazing sights. When you are here you don't want to leave.

"I moved in, in 2008 and have a created a truly unique place, and something a little more modern from when I first arrived."

There has been a dwelling on the island since the early 1940s - and no council tax has ever been asked for.

The setting, as well as scenic, is a wildlife haven that Ms Osbourne says often gives her the chance to regularly see barn owls, kingfishers, hares and the variety of fish in the River Avon.

The timber structure of Osier Lodge is on a raised platform, ensuring it is above the level of any possible flood waters.

The island, including the land and the lodge, has been given a guide price of £190,000 - cheaper than the average UK house price of £211,000, according to the Office for National Statistics.

The island, provided it is not sold beforehand, is to go to auction on Tuesday, September 27 at the Hadley Bowling Green, Hadley Heath, from 6.30pm.

Viewings can be arranged with the owner by contacting Will Kerton, from Knight Frank, on 01905 723438 or email will.kerton@knightfrank.com.