Northern Ireland has recorded what is thought to be its hottest temperature ever - with the mercury hitting 31.2C (88.1F) in County Down.

The temperature was recorded in Ballywatticock at 3.40pm, the Met Office says.

Previously, 30.8C was the highest temperature recorded in Northern Ireland, reached on 12 July 1983 and 30 June 1976.

Crowds have hit beaches on what is provisionally the hottest day of the year in all four UK nations.

Temperatures could still rise slightly higher over the next hour or two, and the mercury is expected to rise even higher tomorrow.

England and South Wales are forecast to see temperatures as high as 33C on Sunday, as hot air blows up from the Azores.

(With input from agencies)