Thousands of visitors flocked to the Sussex coast after sizzling summer weather arrived weeks ahead of schedule.

Day trippers basked on Brighton beach in temperatures reaching 21C on Saturday, making the resort hotter than Barcelona and Rio de Janeiro.

April is notorious for its rain showers but the blazing sunshine had people reaching for parasols rather than umbrellas.

For once the weathermen were right with their predictions for the weekend.

Their forecasts of hot weather had hordes of tourists travelling south from London and the Home Counties.

Long tailbacks developed on the A23 leading into Brighton, while in the city centre, parking spaces were at a premium, as were tables at bars and restaurants.

Chris Ingall, assistant seafront officer for Brighton, said: "We had a few lost children but they managed to find their parents and some people over-enjoyed themselves a little.

"There were a few people walking about nursing a sore head and sunburn. The litter was also a nightmare but we managed to get most of it cleaned up. Last Easter was similar weatherwise so we were ready for a busy one."

John Inch, manager of Gemini's bar, Kings Road Arches, Brighton, said: "I have never, ever had a busier day in April in the eight years I've been here."