Region bakes in scorching sunshine

It was the weekend we had waited almost a year for – but the usual British summer of rain will return at the end of this week.

The West Midlands enjoyed two days of almost unbroken sunshine, bringing hope at last that after last year's wash-out we might at last enjoy a proper summer. Temperatures soared to 25C (77F) in the region on Saturday and Sunday, prompting sun worshippers to head for the region's parks and beauty spots to make the most of the good weather.

It was not far from the highest temperature in Britain, which was recorded in Malvern, Worcestershire, at 27.5C (81F).

It meant great news for outdoor attractions in the region – and a quiet weekend for indoor venues.

Weston Park near Shifnal had double the amount of cars it received on the previous rain-soaked bank holiday weekend as visitors headed for its gardens.

Kate Thomas, sales and marketing manager, said: "We had between 80 and 100 cars. It was families bringing picnics and wanting to use the adventure playground which led to a wonderful atmosphere.

"Strangely enough it was almost too hot as we tend to find that more people like to come for a walk when it's a little bit cooler."

Moseley Old Hall in Bushbury had only 111 visitors out of its usual 200 on Saturday as indoor attractions saw visitor numbers plummet.

Property manager David Lee said: "It was as we would expect. When the weather is this good people tend to head for the coast or to places with larger parks."

Express & Star weatherman John Warner said showers were expected on Thursday or Friday and temperatures will fall to a more seasonal 16C or 17C (61F - 63F) for at least a fortnight.

He said: "We have been having some superb weather, while in Spain they have had five inches of rain. This good weather is not going to last as the Met Office forecasts we will have a wet summer. There will not be many more opportunities to enjoy temperatures like this."