THE Met Office issued a heat health watch Level 3 warning yesterday as the hot spell continued.

Temperatures for a heatwave in South East England are 31C during the day or 16C overnight.

Forecasters said there was a 90per cent probability of heatwave conditions as the temperature hit 26C in the afternoon in Brighton.

As the hot weather continued, zoo keepers at Drusillas Park near Alfriston have been keeping their animals cool with food-layered ice lollies created from some of their favourite titbits.

The multi-coloured lollies were packed full of fresh vegetables and herbs.

Keeper Sam Kenward said: “Animals do not perspire in the same way as humans so we use the ice blocks to keep them comfortable in the heat. Ultimately, the animals are after the rewards hidden within, but as they grab at and break down the ice lollies to get the food, their mouths and paws are cooled.”

“Ice lollies are a great way to keep the animals cool but making them work for their food in creative ways helps to stimulate them mentally and physically.”