Parts of Britain are set to sizzle with summertime temperatures today, while others will have to contend with conditions cooler than average for this time of year.

In Bournemouth and Poole, temperatures are expected to reach 20C today, with other parts of Dorset forecast to be even higher.

But make the most of it - today looks set to be the warmest we will see for the rest of the month, as temperatures are expected to return to average or just above average for April.

A cool front moving down from the north will ensure temperatures return closer to the average for April towards the weekend.

Sea fog cooled things down across the coast on Monday, following the occurrence last week across Dorset.

But while the south of England may be warmer than parts of Greece and Italy today, temperatures will become more spring-like from tomorrow, said Met Office forecaster Craig Snell.

"The cold front across Scotland and Northern Ireland will move south-eastwards throughout the course of the day. It doesn't reach the south of England and Wales until Thursday," he said.

"There will be an increased amount of cloud across those areas and cloud cover will stop temperatures rising."

It is likely to drop to a high of 17C (62F) - which is still around 5C above average for this time of year, Mr Snell added.

"Cloud cover and less sunshine will mean temperatures could be down to 15C (59F) in London on Friday, with a chilly easterly breeze ensuring it will feel a lot cooler," he said.

The weekend and into next week may not hit the highs some will enjoy today, but high pressure will remain, meaning conditions are expected to be pleasant.

Mr Snell said: "It will feel quite chilly in the wind this weekend, certainly more spring-like.

"Temperatures will be nearer to normal, but on the positive side of normal, with some warm, sunny spells still to come. There will be plenty of fine, dry weather."

Forecast temperartures in Europe today: Cairo 22, Barcelona 19, Madrid 19, Rome 20.