IT MAY only be February – but this weekend's blue skies and warm sunshine has a distinctly spring-like feel.

Residents and visitors alike flocked to the beach on Saturday as temperatures reached 13C. The town centre was also packed with people who had decided to leave their winter coats behind for the first time this year.

The forecast is set to remain distinctly cheerful for the next week. There'll be more beautiful weather tomorrow, Monday and Tuesday, with highs of around 12C.

The astronomical spring begins on 20 March and ends on 21 June.

Skies are likely to become more overcast towards the end of the week, so enjoy the sunshine while it's here!