THE summer of 2003 is running as the third hottest since records began almost 350 years ago, forecasters said yesterday.

As much of the country basked in more sunshine, meteorologists were predicting even higher temperatures for the weekend - although they are unlikely to be record- breaking.

Michael Dukes, of the PA WeatherCentre, said: "At the moment this summer is running at the third warmest since records began for England and Wales in 1659.

"If the heat continues, it might even get into the top two places. On Wednesday, it was just short of the 37.1C (98.8F) record but I'm sure it won't top that this weekend."

In 1976, the hottest summer, the country had 15 consecutive days at 32C (90F) and above.

Yesterday, temperatures averaged 32C (90F) in the South and 28C in the North-East, while mist and low cloud were slow to clear in the East.

Experts were predicting the region would start the weekend dry, sunny and hot, although there may be some mist or fog on the coastal regions at first.

There will be an increasing chance of some thundery weather later tomorrow.

Sun worshippers have been advised to head for the south coast beaches for the hottest temperatures of 29C to 30C (84F-86F) this weekend.

Those seeking milder temperatures should seek out the sunshine on the North Sea coast, with Scarborough and Filey, North Yorkshire, cooled down by a pleasant sea breeze at between 22C to 23C (72F to 73F).

Temperatures are expected to drop below 20C (68F) after the weekend, with a few showers predicted in the North on Monday.

Meanwhile, staff at Richmond Ice Cream, in Leeming, North Yorkshire, are working extra shifts to cope with the almost unprecedented demand for their products.

The record temperatures have seen sales of their lollies and ice-creams go through the roof, and staff at all the company's factories are working flat-out.