The hot weather in Suffolk and Essex is set to stay as forecasters predict temperatures could reach up to 24C this week.

After a rainy May — which proved to be fourth-wettest on record in the UK — the sun finally broke out over the Bank Holiday weekend as families took to beaches and parks across the region.

Felixstowe-Bank-Holiday- (1)

Many coastal businesses reported the Bank Holiday period as their busiest of the year so far as wet conditions and lockdown rules have kept people inside for much of 2021.

May half-term crowds headed to Felixstowe today as the sunshine carried over from the bank holiday weekend.

Exuberant children splashed in the shallows as the good weather coincided with their school holiday, giving parents a rest while they played.

Lowestoft Journal: As temperatures continue to soar, people headed to Felixstowe to enjoy the weatherAs temperatures continue to soar, people headed to Felixstowe to enjoy the weather (Image: Sarah Lucy Brown)

Lowestoft Journal: Weslee, Brooke and Jack having fun at their beach hutWeslee, Brooke and Jack having fun at their beach hut (Image: Sarah Lucy Brown)

On Monday, the highest temperature was recorded in the west Suffolk village of Santon Downham, where it reached 23C.

The village was once again the hottest place in Suffolk on Tuesday as temperatures peaked at just below 25C around midday, according to East Anglia-based forecasters Weatherquest.

Wednesday is expected to be another warm day, with highs of 23C and light winds.

The conditions on Thursday are expected to be similar, with peak temperatures of 24C.

However, there is a chance of rain throughout Friday before a clearer Saturday.

Lowestoft Journal: As temperatures continue to soar, people headed to Felixstowe to enjoy the weatherAs temperatures continue to soar, people headed to Felixstowe to enjoy the weather (Image: Sarah Lucy Brown)

There is a small chance of further showers in the region on Sunday and Monday next week - but the warm conditions are set to continue into June.

Phil Garner, meteorologist at Weatherquest, said "long sunny periods" are expected on Wednesday.

He added: "It will be a very similar day to what it's been today."

Lowestoft Journal: Ayla cooling off in the seaAyla cooling off in the sea (Image: Sarah Lucy Brown)

Lowestoft Journal: Ayla cooling off in the seaAyla cooling off in the sea (Image: Sarah Lucy Brown)