BOURNEMOUTH is bracing itself for a packed bank holiday weekend - with thousands expected to head for the conurbation’s beaches.

Drivers reported queues in and around Bournemouth and Poole’s beaches yesterday, with delays likely again today as holidaymakers flock to the coast. And many of the areas’s hotels are already fully booked.

While the forecast for today and tomorrow is sunshine - with temperatures today predicted to hit 22C - things will be getting wetter as the weekend progresses.

According to the Met Office, Sunday and Monday will see showers moving across the south coast, with even a couple of afternoon thunderstorms forecast.

Despite Bournemouth’s hotels reporting booked-up rooms David Bailey, chair of the Bournemouth Accommodation and Hotels Association (BAHA) and director of the Miramar, said: “I’m sure there’s always room for a few more guests.

“We’ve got such a great variety of accommodation for visitors. There’s usually room for a few more, no matter how busy Bournemouth is.”

Mr Bailey said Bournemouth offers something for visitors all year round.

“We’re a resort for every month of the year,” he said.

“People often want to visit for the beach but there’s plenty to do in the area when the weather isn’t fantastic.

“We’re really lucky in that respect.”

“We’ve got a huge range of places to stay here too – everything from guest houses offering a more personal experience to big national brands, such as the Hilton.”