Cirencester and the Cotswolds are in for a scorcher this weekend (July 17) as temperatures rise to 28 degrees.

This is just the start of what looks like a sunny week until at least Thursday, according to the Met Office.

Today (Friday) is shaping up to be just as hot, with plenty of sunshine and fair weather cloud in the afternoon pushing temperatures to 27 degrees.

Will Lang, head of civil contingencies at the Met Office, said: “Across most parts of the UK we’re expecting to see temperatures building, reaching heatwave thresholds across the majority of England over the weekend.

“High temperatures will remain a feature of the forecast until Tuesday, when fresher conditions arrive curtailing heatwave levels.”

The Met Office expects the weather to stay clear and dry across the region tonight with winds remaining light.

The sunshine will feel very warm on Saturday in another fine and dry day, with temperatures reaching 27 degrees from 3pm to 7pm.

Sunday will be hotter earlier with temperatures of 27 degrees by 1pm and 28 by 4pm, feeling very warm or hot.

Public Health England have issued a heat-health alert across England, urging the public to take measures to keep cool and support those who may be at risk in the warm weather.

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

“However, for some people, such as older people, those with underlying health conditions and young children, the summer heat can bring real health risks.

“That’s why we’re urging everyone to keep an eye on those you know who may be at risk.

“If you’re able, ask if your friends, family or neighbours need any support.

“Also take water with you when travelling and keep up to date with weather forecasts.

“It’s also worth remembering the practical steps to keep homes cool during the day as this can aid sleeping at night and give the body time to recover from the heat.”

Some patchy cloud on Monday and Tuesday, which will be less hot than Sunday but still feeling very warm.