Sussex is expecting to bake in the sunshine today as temperatures soar – but for just one day.

Weather experts predict temperatures will reach 29C (84F) during the mini heatwave.

But the blue skies are not going to last. By tomorrow heavy thundery rain is due to spread across the county.

Seafront traders are hoping today's sunshine will help boost business after a drab summer.

The Met Office's promise earlier this year that the UK would enjoy a barbecue summer has proved a disappointment, apart from a week of hot weather at the end of June.

Rodney Posner, who runs the open-air Meeting House cafe, at the boundary between Brighton and Hove, said he was expecting to be busy.

He said: "My stock is ready waiting for customers. We are expecting it to be busy and maybe the crowds will be out in their droves.

"But it is only meant to last for one day so we don't have any panic."

Rodney said the summer's early heatwave kick-started his business for the season. He said: "Although this year has not been wonderful it has been better than the last two years."

James Baker, manager of Brighton Watersports, in Kings Road Arches, said: "We have been extremely disappointed with this year's weather especially after the Met Office said it would be a super hot summer."

James said his business, which includes water-skiing and wake-boarding, depended on the weather and today's hot temperatures were due to combine with perfect calm sea conditions for water sports.

He said: "Our activities are very weather dependent and we have been looking forward to a hot day for weeks."

Sun worshippers on the beach will be advised to take care in the hot and humid temperatures. Lifeguards patrolling the seafront will be giving advice on sun cream.

A Brighton and Hove City Council spokesman said: "Our seafront has been extremely busy for the past few days and we are expecting huge numbers of visitors today.

"Our lifeguards will be extra vigilant, particularly as today’s high tide is due to occur at 11am, reducing the amount of beach available around midday.

"Lifeguards will be advising people on using the correct sun cream and be on the lookout for youngsters in the water."

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