Summer has finally arrived and sun lovers are wasting no time making the most of it. Thousands have already flocked to the beaches today, ahead of what is predicted to be hottest weekend of the season.

Temperatures are expected to be the highest in southeast England on Saturday and Sunday, reaching a peak at 29C.

More than half a million people are predicted to descend on Bournemouth beach over the weekend, according to the local tourist board. Around 125,000 tourists got a head start today, with 3,100 deckchairs and almost 500 beach huts finally getting an airing. The town's ice-cream industry also got a welcome boost with an estimated 10,000 cones sold.

It is also set to be a busy weekend in Brighton, as the city also prepares to host its annual Gay Pride event. Judging by the number of people on the beach today, a Visit Brighton representative admits, "It's going to be manic."

Make the most of it while it lasts. According to the Met Office, it will be turning unsettled again next week. "It will be back to rain or showers across the UK from Monday and, again, these might be on the heavy side, " says forecaster Tony Burgess. "It seems as though summer might only last for two days this year."