Britain will bake in temperatures of 86F in the hottest day of the year as UK prepares for a three-month heatwave

Parks and beaches were packed out yesterday as temperatures soared to 77F, which was hotter than parts of Australia. But the mercury is set to hit 80F in parts of the country today, with sun-seekers already making an early rush for the coast. It is the start of a glorious three months predicted by forecasters, during which there will be highs of 86F and lower than average rainfall. Pictured today is a woman enjoying the sun in Rugby, Warwickshire (top left), and others sunbathing in London.