Weekend starts early as heatwave hits Brighton

Brighton seafront is swarming with sweltering sunbathers making the most of the scorching late summer temperatures.

Sam Owen, who works for Brighton Watersports, said: “We are hoping to be very busy, it’s not been such a good summer for us so far with all the wind.

“We work on the beach because we love it, and working on a sunny beach is definitely better than a cold or rainy one.”

The company offers the chance to try paddle boarding and kayaking, and Sam said she was looking forward to getting in the sea over the weekend.

She said: “I love the sun and always want to get out and swim as much as possible.”

But there have also been several warnings released telling people to be careful as temperatures are set to top 25C.

Lifeguards Emma and Millie said: “Bank holidays are always busy and with the warm weather this weekend we are expecting a lot of people.

“Keep your fluids up and swim between the flags. If anything goes wrong, speak to a lifeguard.”

Yesterday the Met Office issued a Level 2 heatwave health alert for the city with temperature records for the August bank holiday set to be smashed this weekend.

Dr David Supple, clinical chairman at NHS Brighton and Hove CCG, said: “We’re urging residents and visitors to our city to be aware of the dangers of the heat – most of us welcome hot weather, but when it’s too hot for too long, there are health risks.

“When a heatwave alert rises hits this summer, make sure the hot weather does not harm you or anyone you know.

“Going into shade, wearing clothing and sunglasses, and using sunscreen which is at least factor 15 with good UV-A protection on all exposed skin, will all help reduce the risks we all face from the heat.”

Brighton and Hove Buses also warned that, as the hot weather attracts more people to the city, transport could be affected.

A spokesman said: “Traffic levels are building up due to the Bank Holiday Weekend.

“Please be aware there may be delays to services.”