SUFFOLK families flocked to the coast to back in the sun and enjoy the glorious temperatures.

Thousands of people descended on parks and beaches across Suffolk and Essex today to enjoy the rising temperatures, giving youngsters the perfect opportunity to paddle in the sea.

Without a cloud in the sky, the region enjoyed the sunny conditions, with the east of the region experiencing slightly cooler temperatures.

The county will continue to enjoy the warm weather, with skies set to remain blue for most of the weekend.

Temperatures in parts of the county reached 22C/71F – well above average for this time of year – with the rising temperatures set to continue until Sunday.

Joe Osborne, a forecaster at WeatherQuest, told the EADT that although the region would enjoy the sunshine for part of the weekend, the sun rays would probably be replaced by rain on Sunday.

He added: “This is definitely one of the warmest periods of the year so far with temperatures several degrees above average – so it is really quite good.

“But with barely a cloud in the sky the sunburn risk is quite high. Everybody should make sure that they cover up and have a hat and some sun cream.

“Saturday will be mainly dry with a small chance of a light shower later in the day. Showers are expected overnight on Saturday and into Sunday morning.”