Sussex paramedics are urging the public to stay cool in a bid to cut the number of heatwave call-outs.

They normally receive 500 calls a day but the number soared to 800 as thermometers broke the 28C (82F) mark at the weekend.

There were scores of people suffering dehydration, heat stroke and accidents on the beach.

With the hot weather set to continue, the Sussex Ambulance Service today urged residents and visitors to stay in the shade and turn up their fans.

Police are also warning people to watch their belongings after handbags and valuables were swiped from beaches.

The Met Office is forecasting temperatures in the mid to high 20s for the rest of this week in Sussex.

Janine Bell, the ambulance service's communication manager, said: "People suffering from high blood pressure, breathing difficulties and heart conditions, for example, as well as babies and pregnant women should all be especially careful."

She urged safety first: Stay in the shade, use sunscreen, cover up, increase fluid intake, ventilate your home and use fans, look after the elderly, protect children and keep babies out of the sun, avoid excessive physical exertion, don't drink too much alcohol and have plenty of breaks during the day for cold drinks.

Ms Bell added a slightly controversial tip stay at work.

She said: "The office is often the coolest place to be in a heatwave. Ask your boss for air conditioning or fans and open windows where possible."

Sneak thieves are taking advantage of the heat.

Two homes in Sunninghill Avenue, Hove, were raided by burglars getting in through open windows and doors. Six handbags were stolen in restaurants and bars in Brighton and Hove over the weekend and more were taken from sunbathers as they went for dips in the sea.

A police spokeswoman said: "Never leave wallets, purses or bags unattended and get someone trustworthy to keep an eye on your belongings on beaches."