Forecasters predict snow at weekend

As Londoners were enjoying the hottest day of the year in the capital so far today, forecasters warned snow could sweep in by Sunday.

Temperatures had reached 17C at Kew Gardens by midday today, according to the Met Office, with predictions they could rise higher during the afternoon.

But they are then set to plummet to just above freezing early on Sunday as rain, sleet and snow showers hit the South-East.

"We are going to see a big change over the next few days, as we move from the hottest day of the year to some very wintry weather," said Met Office forecaster Nigel Bolton. Cold north-westerly winds late on Saturday and early on Sunday could see snow in central London as the temperature drops to an average of 2C and is likely to reach freezing in Kent and Essex.

Mr Bolton said: "Saturday should be fine, with temperatures of 10-11C, but in the evening temperatures will plummet as rain and sleet showers arrive. There is a good chance of snow." Forecasters also said the cold snap could continue into next week.