TEMPERATURES in Wiltshire were at their highest level in 12 years this week as the county basked in glorious sunshine.

Wiltshire saw four days of continuous rays with temperatures staying above 30C from Sunday – something which prompted the Met Office to issue a level three amber heatwave warning - one behind a national emergency.

Amateur weatherman Geoff Witts, who recorded the weather for Wiltshire Council before retiring, has been crunching the figures from the history books and found that this month has been the warmest in 12 years.

“Monday was the warmest day of the year so far but also the warmest day since July 19 last year where temperatures peaked at 32.9C,” he added.

“For this time of year you can get 30C sometimes but this June is the warmest in 12 years since June 19, 2005 where it was 31.5C.”

Mr Witts, like so many others, will always remember the sweltering heat the country faced in June 1976 where a record-breaking 35C was recorded.

“There is still a long way to go before temperatures get to what they were in 1976 or 2006 but it is still very warm for June.”

It was hotter in parts of the UK overnight on Sunday than it was in Istanbul during the day, and temperatures are expected to continue to remain warm.

With the heat rising, the Public Health England South West has advised people to drink plenty of water, keep an eye on those likely to be most at risk and stay out of the sun between 11am to 3pm.

Children and adults should also apply plenty of sunscreen and wear a hat.

With the summer now upon us, Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service are encouraging homeowners to let them know if they plan on having a controlled burn after receiving multiple reports from concerned residents.

People looking to carry out a controlled burn should call the control room on 0306799 0019 or visit dwfire.org.uk to avoid an unnecessary turnout of a fire engine.

The RSPCA is warning pet owners to make sure their animals are kept safe during the hot weather by avoiding leaving animals in cars, ensuring they have access to shade and drinking water.

When it comes to walking dogs, take them out in the morning or evening when pets will not burn their paws on pavement or be at increased risk of heatstroke.