THE sound of helicopter blades will fill the skies above Poole this week as millionaires line up their bids for Long Island.

The idyllic 30-acre island, one of Poole Harbour's five main islands, was put on the market last week, with offers upwards of £1m being considered.

Interest is already building, say agents Stephen Noble, and the wealthy and well-heeled will be flying in this week and landing choppers on the island for viewings.

So far, there have been around 35 enquiries from the likes of businessmen, family groups and those with a keen interest in nature.

The agents also say they expect celebrity interest and have already fielded calls from PAs, though they were understandably reluctant reveal any names.

Nigel Still, director at Stephen Noble, said: "We've had a great response, but then again it is a very rare thing to purchase and a unique opportunity.

"People know if they don't go for it now, they might not get another chance like this."

Though offers in excess of £1m are being listened to, the final sale price is expected to be a lot higher, with nearby Green Island selling for upwards of £4m in 2005.

Stephen Noble say they expect interest to mount in the next 10 days and have admitted a bidding war is inevitable.

A Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Long Island offers a rare combination of wildlife habitats, with beaches, salt marshes, woodland and heathland.

It is close to both Arne nature reserve and Sandbanks, and offers stunning views of the harbour and Purbeck Hills.

Long Island has been owned by the Rempstone Estate since the 1800s and is being sold by the Ryder family.