Summer hots up for weekend

The summer has finally returned — with forecasters predicting one of the hottest weekends of the year.

The Met Office say temperatures could hit 30C (86F) in London on Saturday, with the heatwave continuing into next week. Monday will be warmer still — and could become the hottest day of the year so far, beating the 31.4C recorded on 9 June.

After weeks of cooler, wet weather, forecasters are suggesting a welcome change across the country.

Meteorologist Wayne Elliot said: “It has been hitting 28C (82F) in London in the past few days and, although there is going to be a slight blip tomorrow, we are looking at a heatwave this weekend.

“Lots of warm air is coming up from the South and, as a warm weather front comes in from the Continent, it will bring hot temperatures.”

The heatwave is unlikely to last beyond Wednesday, with thunderstorms emerging by the middle of next week.