London weather: Spring sun continues with temperature expected to hit 26C

London is set to sizzle today with forecasters predicting the hottest day of the year so far and temperatures rising higher levels than in Spain.

The capital will be treated to early summertime weather, with the possibility of temperatures surging to 26C.

The soaring temperatures mean London will be warmer than parts of Greece, Italy and France today.

Sun-worshippers have been told to enjoy the sunshine while it lasts as forecasters predict the weather will return to average and take a dip by the end of the week.

Elsewhere in the UK temperatures will remain cooler as parts of the north-west could see lows of just 9C today.

Cloud cover in Blackpool will leave temperatures at a chilly 9C and in the Shetland Islands it is expected to be even cooler.

Forecaster Craig Snell said: “The cold front across Scotland and Northern Ireland will move south-eastwards throughout the course of the day. It doesn't reach the south of England and Wales until Thursday.”

"There will be an increased amount of cloud across those areas and cloud cover will stop temperatures rising."

It is likely to drop to a high of 17C (62F) - which is still around 5C above average for this time of year, Mr Snell added.

"Cloud cover and less sunshine will mean temperatures could be down to 15C (59F) in London on Friday, with a chilly easterly breeze ensuring it will feel a lot cooler," he said.

The weekend and into next week may not hit the highs some will enjoy today, but high pressure will remain, meaning conditions are expected to be pleasant.