People flock outdoors as heatwave hits North East

Temperatures are set to reach highs of 26C (78.8F) across the north-east of England this weekend, as the UK enters its third heatwave of the summer.

High pollen and UV index levels are also expected across the region.

Northumbrian Water has advised people to use water "wisely" after the driest spring across the North East since 1929.

Despite reservoir levels being below average for this time of year, Kieran Ingram, water director for Northumbrian Water, said there were no current plans to introduce a hosepipe ban.

"We have no current plans to introduce a hosepipe ban, but with more warm weather predicted, we need customers to play their part by using water wisely, to keep the water flowing and our local environment healthy," Mr Ingram said.

It follows restrictions on water usage coming into force today in Yorkshire - the first hosepipe ban in the UK this year.

Temperatures are expected to remain high throughout the weekend, with rain and thunderstorms forecast to arrive in the region on Monday.

The Met Office said there were on average 2,000 heat-related deaths every year in England.

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It said people should drink plenty of fluids and try to keep out of the sun between 11:00 BST and 15:00 BST when UV rays were at their strongest.

It also advised people to walk in the shade and apply sunscreen.

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