THOUSANDS of people have flocked to the beach to soak up the sunshine as the mercury hit 23C.

People put up parasols and sunbathed along Brighton seafront as temperatures soared, with even warmer weather on the way.

Others took to the sea on paddleboards to make the most of the mini-heatwave.

The Argus:

Temperatures across the south of England could reach as high as 34C later this week, with the Met Office declaring a level three heat-health alert.

Brighton and Hove City Council have urged people heading out to stay safe as temperatures continue to rise, advising people to wear suncream, drink plenty of water, close curtains to keep cool and never leave children or pets in a parked car.

An NHS in Sussex spokeswoman said dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke can affect anyone, with older people, those with serious or long-term illness, and people who spend a lot of time outside or in hot places the most at risk.

Brighton is set to be bathed in sunshine for much of the week, with temperatures peaking at a high of 27C on Saturday.

However, the warm weather could come to an end on Sunday with showers forecast for large parts of the day with highs of 19C.

Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at the UK Health Security Agency, said: ‘‘With temperatures forecast to reach 30C in some parts of the south on Friday we want everyone to enjoy the hot weather safely when it arrives and be aware of good health advice for coping with warmer conditions.

“During periods of hot weather, it is especially important to keep checking on those who are most vulnerable, such as older people and those with heart or lung conditions. Make sure to look out for signs of heat exhaustion and follow our simple health advice to beat the heat.”