THOUSANDS of Suffolk sun-seekers have been basking in Mediterranean temperatures – and there’s more to come.

The beach at Felixstowe was awash with families as scorching heat heralded the start of the summer holidays.

After weeks of dreary weather, there were fears that the season could be a washout for the resort’s seafront businesses.

But with temperatures topping 26C those fears have been put to bed for a little while as day-trippers packed out the beaches, seafront bars and amusements in the resort.

Charlie Manning, owner of Manning’s Amusements, is delighted that summer has finally arrived and he hopes it is here to stay.

He said: “The weather is good and there are plenty of people visiting Felixstowe.

“All the kiosks along the seafront are all absolutely packed and there are queues on the road so that’s good. Now that the kids are off we’ve got some good weather. It’s fantastic – it’s all we could hope for.”

Yesterday, Suffolk was among the hottest parts of the UK – and warmer even than traditional hot spots including Rio De Janeiro and Monaco.

Temperatures are expected to reach 30C this week, although the warning from forecasters is to enjoy it while we can.

Keith Brown, chief executive of Visit East Anglia, said: “It is fantastic that the weather has finally turned.

“The prolonged period of bad weather does have a knock-on effect on our attractions, especially those outdoor attractions, but our indoor attractions like museums and galleries and those who have made outdoor provisions for the bad weather had gone well.

“It is much better when the sun shines. It has certainly given everyone a lift.”

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