SWELTERING temperatures created bumper spending in Worcester yesterday, with drinks, ice creams and BBQ equipment top of the summer shopping lists.

As the mercury soared to 34.6C (94F), the highest recorded since August 1990, newsagents throughout the city raced to re-stock fridges with fizzy drinks, ice poles and choc' ices, as people struggled to keep their cool.

Sainsbury's, in the Lychgate Centre, said its customers were definitely preparing for this week's hot weather, with ice creams and fizzy drinks flying off the shelves.

"We saw an increase in sales across the board this weekend from BBQ food and accessories to sun care, salads and alcoholic and soft beverages," said a company spokeswoman.

Drinks giant Bulmers, of Hereford, said its operations were now at "full capacity", to sustain cider supping antics in Worcestershire and Herefordshire.

"There's a great demand for cider in this type of weather so the factory has been working flat out," said George Thomas, spokesman for the company.

Cider flowing

"Dozens of extra lorries have been put on to keep the cider flowing throughout the country."

Alongside the River Severn's banks, rows of pensioners chomped ice creams, toddlers splashed through South Quay's fountain jets, while finding shade beneath any tree became a major struggle.

Throughout the city, glowing red arms and shoulders showed many sun worshippers had been unprepared for the blistering hot temperatures, which at 31.6C (90F) on Sunday made Worcester the hottest place in the country.

Evening News weatherman Paul Damari recorded the city's sweltering temperature from his Met. Office station in Barbourne. Many in the national Press recorded the Faithful City's achievement incorrectly - believing Barbourne was a Worcestershire village and not a city district.

The weather is set to remain in the mid-30s today and sunny throughout the week.

There is a slight chance of thunderstorms this evening and temperatures will drop to a more comfortable 21-24C (70F-75F) from Thursday.