TEMPERATURES in Essex are set to rise to 23°C - hotter than Spain - as forecasters say it is the hottest day of the year so far. 

Yesterday the mercury rose to 22°C in Shoebury as people enjoyed the gorgeous weather. 

Essex Weather Centre say today will be dry and very warm with clear blue skies across the county and a maximum temperature of 23°C. 

Spain's capital Madrid will only get to 19°C today. 

The Essex Weather Centre tweeted yesterday's top temperatures were 23°C in Southend, 22.5°C in Writtle, 22.1°C in Braintree and 21°C in Stansted.

Hayfever sufferers have been warned there is a moderate level of pollen in the air but air pollution is low. 

The next few days will return to cooler temperatures however, with the forecast showing a return to the seasonal averages of around 12 or 13°C.

Essex Weather Centre predicts another fine day on Thursday but with more cloud and cooler temperatures with a stronger North-Easterly breeze. 

Over the weekend, it will turn chilly overnight but the days will be sunny and dry. 

Thurrock Gazette: