UP to 180,000 people are expected to flock to Bourne-mouth’s sun-soaked beaches this weekend.

With forecasts of blue skies and highs of 25C, bookings at hotels and guesthouses have soared.

The resort’s 3,000 deckchairs are out and seafront restaurants Urban Reef and West Beach expect to shift up to 100kg of mussels.

A Bournemouth Tourism spokesperson said: “With such great weather predicted we’re anticipating a very busy Bournemouth beach.

A STREAM at a New Forest beauty spot has dried up.

But the disappearance of the water at Linford Bottom near Ringwood is no cause for concern.

Environment Agency spokesperson Julie Stannett said the Linford Brook regularly dries up during the summer months but refills quickly after rainfall.

Linford Brook is a tributary of the River Avon.

“However, as an alternative, people can sit and watch Wimbledon on the big screen in the Lower Gardens or, in keeping with the forecast, the 1950s Marilyn Monroe classic Some Like it Hot will be screened on Sunday – the perfect alternative to the World Cup – and at no cost.”

A Portland Coastguard spokesman said: “Most people will have a great day at the coast and we want everyone to have fun and keep safe by following just a few simple rules.

“Go to a beach where lifeguards are on duty, know your tides and get out there and enjoy.”

Away from the sea, Winton Carnival kicks off at 11am today.

Over 1,200 people will cool off with the Pier to Pier swim at noon on Sunday, and a four-day Marching Bands event starts with a parade of the town centre, gardens and seafront (1pm-3pm).

An AA spokesman said: “We’re definitely expecting heavy traffic towards Bournemouth.”