PEOPLE across Hampshire were today preparing to bask in the hottest day of the year so far - but forecasters have warned it it is not going last.

Temperatures are set to soar to a baking 26C (78.8F) on average, and some parts of the county further inland could even reach roasting highs of 27C (80.6F) and 28C (82.4F).

Weather officials say there has been a noticeable rise in temperature over the weekend with a jump from Sunday's 23C to today's high -20s scorcher.

However, they are telling people to make the most of today's glorious rays as it will break up tomorrow with maximum temperatures dipping to 19C with cloudy spells for the rest of the week.

Leisure facilities are bracing themselves for an influx of visitors today as people make the most of the bright sunshine.

Sun retreat favourites on a blistering summer day are Hampshire's coastline, the New Forest and paddling pools across the region where youngsters can indulge in a blissful dip to cool down.

All the hot weather is the perfect excuse for an ice cream and staff at Carlo's Ice and Tea Rooms in West Wellow are working hard to cope with the overwhelming demand. They sold 320 litres of ice cream on Sunday alone.

Manager Wayne Shaw said: "I've had to double my order this week to cope with the demand. They're flying out fast in the heat."

Meanwhile, staff at Marwell Zoo are stocking the freezer with giant ice lollies the size of buckets made from fresh fruit and water that will help to chill out giraffes.

Monkeys are also being treated to the fruit lollies while rhinos get to wallow in their own cooling pool of mud. Marwell Zoo animal information liaison officer Bill Hall said: "We are keeping animal house doors open and there are plenty of trees for shade from the sun. The measures are in place to keep all the animals comfortable."

As the heat rises, car users have been advised by the AA to be prepared.

A spokeswoman said: "The roads aren't really busy at the moment but there can be an increase in road rage in the hot weather. We are advising people to keep their vehicles ventilated and make all the checks on them before they set out."