SOUTH Essex roasted in the sun as Britain enjoyed some of its hottest September weather for over a century.

The mercury along Southend seafront hit more than 27 degrees celcius yesterday, with temperatures reaching 30 degrees in other parts of the country.

Families hit the beach to make the most of the sunshine, with youngsters seen splashing about in the water fountains at City Beach, on Marine Parade, and enjoying ice creams.

Southend traders told how visitors flocked to the seafront.

Isabella Ardelean, 35, a cashier at New York New York arcade, in Marine Parade, said: “It was busier than a normal Tuesday.

“We took plenty of cash throughout the day. The beach and seafront was very busy from what I could see from the arcade.

“I think people were making the most of the sunshine as it is unusual to have this sort of weather this late in the year.

“It was not as busy as the summer holidays but it was busy considering it was a weekday when people are at work and children are at school.”

Alyce Dawson, 17, a waitress at Ye Olde Chippy, in Eastern Esplanade, welcomed the unexpected business boom.

She said: “It was really busy. The sunshine and good weather defiantly brought more people out for the day.

“The seafront was packed pretty and we were rushed off out feet nearly all day.

“I think it was almost as busy as a hot summer day would normally be.”

The ambulance service, councils and hospitals issued strong advice warning people to stay safe in the heat.

Grahame Madge, spokesman for the Met Office, said the warm weather is expected remain in place for the next few days.

As the weekend approaches, temperatures are expected to dip.

He added: “Temperatures are on the rise and the we anticipate that places 20 miles form London will see the highest figures, and Essex is included in those areas.

“We are not expecting to see temperatures decrease very much during the nights and evenings.

“The hot weather is a mixture of weather conditions. Hurricane Hermine has been hitting parts of Florida and has sent warm weather across Europe towards the UK.

“The warm air coming up to the UK has been combined with clear skies and the sun is then out making it even warmer.”

Mr Madge urged people to take sensible precautions in the hot weather, inclusding drinking plenty of water, walking in the shade, and applying sun cream.

Dr Thomas Waite, from Public Health England, echoed the advice, adding: “Much of the advice on beating the heat is common sense and for most people there’s nothing to really worry about.

“But for some people, such as older people, those with underlying health conditions and those with young children, summer heat can bring real health risks.

“Remember to close curtains to keep homes cool.”