To the top of heat charts

ered from a lake in Nutfield, Surrey, on Monday.

The RNLI has urged those heading to the seaside to seek out beaches with a lifeguard.

Part of Saddleworth Moor in the Peak District has been gripped by wildfire since Sunday afternoon with the Army helping fire crews who are battling to bring the blaze under control.

Fire chiefs said the situation could go on for weeks, that a wind change could provide more fuel for the fire, and that a “significant downpour of rain” is needed.

A number of homes were evacuated and pockets of fire continue to burn across an area of around 3.7 miles (6km), Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service said.

The RSPCA called on pet owners to keep a close eye on their animals in the heat after receiving 625 calls about animals in hot environments between June 11 and 24 – the majority about dogs in hot cars.

Commuters have endured delays after rail services were forced to impose speed limits due to overheating tracks.

And the hot spell is good news for gardeners, with horticultural experts saying it could help produce excellent vegetables, fruit and flowers.

The Royal Horticultural Society have suggested people use waste water from the kitchen to keep plants nourished and to reduce demand for water.

This is the first time in five years that temperatures have hit 300C (860F) in all four nations of the UK, the Met Office said.