Health services stretched to the limit

But while all-too-rare periods of scorching weather are great news for families on holiday, sun-worshippers and the local tourist trade, there's also a more serious side.

Aside from fears over long-term global warming, the blazing sun has had all sorts of worrying repercussions on a local level this week.

NHS services have been stretched to the limit as residents and visitors seek treatment for heat and sun related complaints.

Sussex Ambulance has had to draft in more managers on a temporary basis to deal with as many as 700 calls a day, 200 more than usual!

Spokeswoman Janine Bell said: "Traditionally we see a rise in the number of calls during the summer, but this is being accelerated this year as the good weather coincides with the school holidays and large numbers of visitors."

Common complaints have been dehydration, heat stroke, sunburn and beach accidents. High temperatures can also exacerbate existing conditions like high blood pressure, heart and respiratory problems and pregnancy.

Spare a thought also for the thousands shut away in sweltering offices dressed in formal clothing while you paddle in the shallows.

Or most offices that is.

Not so at Conquest House, the home of Bexhill's largest employer Hastings Direct, which is almost fully air conditioned. And if lucky staff are still hot under the collar they can take a dip in the insurance company's outdoor swimming pool, open Monday to Saturday!

Human resources manager Christian Lippiat said: "In addition we have chilled water machines on each floor and refrigerated drink and chocolate machines in the staff restaurant.

"The menu has also been adjusted to suit the heat with Thursday's roast beef being replaced with a salad bar.

"The pool has been much appreciated after work and at lunch times."

There are also rich pickings for opportunist burglars and Sussex Police is warning residents to be careful about leaving doors and windows open, especially when in the garden or just popping out for a while."