Thousands of Brits have spent their newfound freedom at sundown parties on the beach and in parks, to mark the hottest March day in more than half a century.
- Warmest conditions in South East yesterday are on a par with Majorca as mercury hit 76.1F (24.5C) in London. Temperatures in March last exceeded 73F (23C) in 2012, and 75F (24C) in 1968 when all-time record was set.
- Warmer weather coincides with the end to ‘stay at home’ order in latest stage of roadmap out of lockdown. Pictures showed packed beaches, parks and promenades in Leeds, Nottingham, Birmingham and London – among others.
- In Brighton, beachgoers erupted into impromptu party with flame throwers as huge crowds gathered. Hundreds of people flocked to Woodhouse Moor in Leeds on Tuesday as they made the most of the warm weather conditions.
- Police were seen urged visitors to abide by the rule of six – or maximum of two households.
- In Nottingham, the leader of the local council announced a ban on drinking alcohol in public places.
- Meanwhile in Cornwall, tourist bosses have warned it is “still illegal” to visit as lockdown restrictions have started to lift.
- Health Secretary Matt Hancock earlier shared a Tweet urging Britons to ‘enjoy the sun but let’s do it safely’, adding: ‘We have come so far, don’t blow it now’.
- Meanwhile in Bristol, Kill the Bill protests erupted in the city centre. Demonstrators are taking a stand against the Government’s Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill.
Disease expert Dr Bharat Pankhania, a senior clinical lecturer at Exeter University, has warned that Brits must keep their circles small in the continued fight against Covid. He added that caution and care are needed, as people brace for the hottest day of the year so far.
