PREPARE to slap on the sunscreen and slip on the sandals as the county looks set for a scorcher next week.

PREPARE to slap on the sunscreen and slip on the sandals as the county looks set for a scorcher next week.

The weekend will be mostly dry and sunny, with temperatures averaging around 17C (63F). However temperatures are expected to soar early next week, with highs of 24C (76F).

Weather expert Ken Blowers said there are unlikely to be any more freak storms, like the one seen on Monday.

He said: “A large anti-cyclone is beginning to build over the UK which should ensure a dry and warm weekend. As time goes on, it will get warmer each day and may hit as high as 24F (76F) early next week. The outlook is good.

“As the weekend goes on, and early next week, we could see some of the highest temperatures so far this year.”

Fingers continue to be crossed for a sweltering summer.

Mr Blowers added: “We can say with every degree of confidence that this summer won't be as bad the two previous summers. It cannot be any worse.”