SEVEN car parks used by beach visitors were full before 10am as residents and visitors flock to the seaside on what could be the hottest day of the year.

BCP Council has reported that the parking facilities at the conurbation's most popular beaches are at capacity.

Issuing an update on social media at around 9.15am on Sunday, June 13, a spokesperson for the local authority said: "Please be advised the following car parks are now full - Sandbanks, Shore Road, Branksome Chine, Alum Chine, Durley Chine, Bath Road North and Bath Road South.

"Why not use the beach park and ride service or download the BeachCheck app (find it at your app store) to find the perfect spot."

Meanwhile, an officer from Poole Police posted on Instagram at around 8.15am that the Bath Road car park in Bournemouth was already full.

BCP Council is continuing to promote its park and ride service, which runs between King's Park and Boscombe Pier at weekends in June.

Yesterday, thousands of visitors travelled to the Dorset coast to bask in the glorious sunshine and today is set to be another scorching one.

The Met Office is forecasting highs of 20C in mid-afternoon although local forecaster Bournemouth & Poole Weather said the area could experience top temperatures between 25C and 28C.