HEAT ALERT IN BAKE BRITAIN

A HEALTH alert was issued yesterday as Britain faced scorching temperatures of up to 90F.

- Steph Spyro

The sizzling start to the school holidays triggered a warning from Public Health England to look out for the elderly and vulnerable.

The heatwave arrives as most schools break up for summer.

Millions of families will head off on staycations to enjoy new freedoms after more Covid curbs finally lift on Monday.

But Jan Shortt, general secretary of The National Pensioners’ Convention, said: “It is very nice to have some good weather as people approach lockdown restrictions easing next week.

“However, spare a thought for those people – mainly the older generation – who are susceptible to conditions where the body temperature cannot be regulated.

“As we age, our skin thins and that is why older people suffer from the effects of the sun’s rays.”

Her concern was echoed by charity Independent Age, which asked everyone to look out for older people in their family and neighbourhood. Director of services Simon Hewett-Avison said: “The summer sun can be lots of fun but we must remember to enjoy it responsibly.

“The hot weather can pose health risks for lots of us. Please check in on older friends or relatives, make sure they’re able to drink plenty of fluids and are able to protect themselves when out and about.

“If you see somebody struggling, please do check in on them. They may be experiencing a heat-related illness such as dehydration or heat stroke.”

Dr Owen Landeg, scientific and technical lead at Public Health England, said: “Much of the advice on beating the heat is common sense and for many people warmer weather is something they very much enjoy.