TENS of thousands of people have been taking advantage of the hottest spell of the year by heading for the county's coastline.

Seaside traders and beach conessionaires had a bumper time and the packed beaches rekindled memories of yesteryear when almost every day of the summer holidays saw the county's seaside towns packed and thriving.

Meanwhile, the Government has issued a heatwave warning after forecasts that temperatures will leap beyond 30C (86F) this week.

The high temperatures can cause heat exhaustion and heat stroke which can be fatal.

The Department of Health has advised people who experience symptoms of heat exhaustion, including headaches, dizziness, nausea and vomiting to take a lukewarm shower or sponge themselves with cold water.

Health chiefs have stressed that people should keep out of the sun, especially between the hours of 11am and 4pm and to drink plenty of liquids. Alcohol, coffee and tea should be avoided as they worsen dehydration.