The sun will be out this bank holiday weekend as Britons enjoy predicted highs of 27C (81F) after a wet and cool August.

Most parts of the UK can look forward to some sunshine and warmer temperatures during the long weekend.

Bank Holiday Monday looks set to be the hottest day, with the best of the weather in the southern half of the UK.

In Southampton the needle is set to hit 24C today and Monday, before cooling later in the week.

Nationwide, temperatures are forecast to rise from 25C (77F) on Saturday and Sunday to 27C (81F) on Monday.

Revellers heading to Notting Hill Carnival should see summery conditions, Met Office forecaster Greg Dewhurst said.

He said: "Both days it should be dry with plenty of sunny spells, light winds and feeling warm."

Northern Ireland and Scotland may see outbreaks of light rain and drizzle on Sunday, he added.

Temperatures on Monday will be lower in northern parts, struggling to reach 18C (64F), as wet and windy weather sets in, Mr Dewhurst said.

A fresher feel is forecast from Tuesday onwards, with the wet weather moving south.