All of the Herbert stories start in Blakeney and Barney the Barn Owl starts with Herbert setting sail in Humphrey the Seal's little blue boat. 

 

They are going to see the oystercatchers and have nearly arrived when they hear awful squawking.  Barney the Barn owl was being chased by Reg, Bert and Sonic, the Blakeney seagulls.  Fortunately Herbert has a plan for his rescue....