In Pictures: Heat hazes and blue skies before thunderstorms roll in

From Glastonbury to London’s parks and coastal spots to sports events, the sun was beating down early on Saturday.

A heat haze above Bournemouth beach (Andrew Matthews/PA) (PA Wire)

Shade was at a premium across the UK for many as summer sunshine beat down, with hundreds flocking to coastal spots and gardens.

In Somerset, those at the Glastonbury Festival could save their wellies for another day – although lightning, hail and strong winds were forecast for later on Saturday in some areas of northern England, and Scotland on Sunday.

In London, the parks proved popular for those seeking both sun and shade.

Kayakers, paddleboarders and swimmers were splashing around on the North East coast, while in the South East some of the sea views were obscured by a heat haze.

Day five of Royal Ascot in Berkshire found fashionable racegoers turning to hand fans to stir up a breeze.