IN PICTURES: Beachgoers bask in sun on hottest day of the year so far

Sunbathers made the most of the sunny weather with queues for ice creams and others braving the sea for a dip on bank holiday Monday.

Local forecaster Bournemouth & Poole Weather said temperatures hit 22.5C making it the warmest day of the year so far.

Warmest day of the year confirmed both locally and nationally! At least 22.5C here in Bournemouth and at least 24.6C both in west London and Northern Scotland!!! @Bournemouthecho

— Bournemouth & Poole Weather (@BournemouthWea1) May 31, 2021

Other parts of the country saw temperatures soar to a very warm 24C.

Seafront car parks were full by mid-morning with many of the beaches on the council’s Beach Check App showing as busy.

Popular beaches included Sandbanks, Alum Chine, Durley Chine and Mudeford. 

Cllr Mohan Iyengar, Portfolio Holder for Tourism, Leisure and Culture said: "The weather has turned glorious and it’s been a great bank holiday weekend. Hotels have been full and restaurants busy with many other attractions reporting great visitor numbers. But importantly it’s been a weekend without the need to escalate our interventions to incident level.

"That is a credit to the officers across the council, police, fire and other authorities who have been working throughout to ensure everyone has a fun and safe time.

“This bodes well for the summer and we’ve a lot to be positive about. The Festival Coast Live kicks off in June with more than 200 events across our three towns, and the culmination of summer with the Air Festival in September. We're truly cementing our position us as the best resort in the UK with beaches we’re proud of and hospitality second to none.

“But we won't be complacent. We’ve increased resources to act quickly and deal firmly with people who are inconsiderate or behave unpleasantly. Our message is to respect, protect and enjoy our beautiful resort. People who do this are welcome and we wish you a wonderful stay.”