A KEEN amateur astrophotographer captured the stunning sight of bioluminescent plankton off the Cornish coast - below the Milky Way.

Richard Haynes, 58, captured the images at Kynance Cove on the Lizard Peninsula in the early hours.

He said: "There are many natural wonders to be seen in the darkness of night.

“The Milky Way Galaxy, Aurora, Noctilucent Clouds, Full Moon rises, Comets, but Bioluminescent Plankton is just so special.

"It's naked eye visible when agitated, so no special camera equipment is required.

Incredible photos show bioluminescent plankton amidst the Milky Way. Richard Haynes, 58, captured the images at a popular cove on the Lizard Peninsula of southwest Cornwall, in the early hours on Tuesday 19 July. Richard, a keen amateur astrophotographer with an interest in outdoor pursuits and the environment, said he was first alerted to the presence of plankton at the cove when a photographer on holiday from Wales spotted it the previous night.
Bioluminescent plankton amidst the Milky Way. Picture: Richard Haynes / SWNS

"Not only can you see it, you can swim, paddle and immerse yourself within it. On a good show, the colour can be a deep, bright electric blue.

"When you see it light-up along a breaking wave, you'll never forget that experience! It's just magical."