The south-east of Britain basked in unseasonably hot sunny weather on 15 April, with temperatures reaching as high as 25C.

Keen not to miss out on temperatures that were expected to better those in much of the Mediterranean, people hit the beach in sunny Southend-on-Sea to soak up the spring rays.

"It's 10 degrees warmer I think than it is usually at this time of years so you have to make the most of it really. Just make sure we're all creamed up," said one woman.

"I can't believe it. It's absolutely wonderful. Let's hope it lasts," added another.

Meanwhile in London, deck chairs were equally in demand in Green Park as office workers made the most of their lunch breaks to enjoy the day.

Parts of Britain are experiencing the second warmest April for 20 years, according to meteorologists.

Temperatures are expected to drop over the next few days but the sunshine will last through to next week.

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