Visitors flock to Brighton beach as temperatures soar

Brighton Station saw people head straight to the beach in their thousands as the mercury crept to 27C in the city.

Some donned sunhats or were dressed in their swimwear ready to sunbathe or have a dip in the sea.

Train operator Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR), which operates Southern, Thameslink and Gatwick Express services, said they anticipated people to travel from far and wide to enjoy Brighton in the sunshine.

A spokesman for the rail firm said: “The hot weather is set to draw thousands to the coast this weekend to enjoy everything that the great British public loves about Brighton and we’re proud to play a vital part in making that happen.

“Our services are bound to be busier than normal and we’re advising passengers to take particular care travelling in this heat.

“It is wise to carry water at all times and to not get on a train if you’re feeling unwell.

“If you are on a train, then avoid pulling the emergency alarm between stations if possible, so that we can get help to you as quickly as possible.”

Temperatures are set to rise further this week, with Brighton facing the prospect of its hottest day ever recorded on Tuesday.

Rail companies, including GTR, have urged people not to travel tomorrow and Tuesday unless absolutely necessary, with services set to experience significant disruption and delays.

Reduced services will operate on Thameslink routes and speed restrictions will be in place on both days due to the extreme temperatures.

Chief operating officer of GTR Angie Doll said: “With the Met Office issuing warnings for extreme heat, speed restrictions are being put in place across our network to keep trains and passengers safe.

“This means we’ll have far fewer services for people to catch and there will also be at very real risk of real disruption. Even if you are able to travel in the morning, you may need to consider alternative ways to get home as a result.”