In pictures: Summer comes early

In pictures: Summer comes early

1 of 11 These sunbathers on Eastbourne beach are set to be joined by hundreds more as Easter approaches

2 of 11 On a sea wall in Bulwer Avenue in St Sampson in Guernsey gulls soak up some rays

3 of 11 The standing stones of Avebury, Wiltshire in a rare visitor-free moment

4 of 11 Not a visitor from space but a Glitter Ball on Blackpool sea front reflecting that other rare visitor - the sun

5 of 11 Sunshine makes a dip in the water irresistable for these lads in Sandwich, Kent

6 of 11 A swan finds shade at Whittington Castle, Shropshire

7 of 11 Green hills, blue sky and the majesty of Glastonbury Tor

8 of 11 The dead-heading goes on come rain or shine in Statford-on-Avon

9 of 11 Devon is beautiful all year round but this Newton Abbot garden loves the sunshine

10 of 11 Summer holidays beckon as the sun highlights this structure on the Kent coast

11 of 11 Doing a roaring trade - A cooling ice cream is just the thing for these shoppers in the shadow of the Tyne bridge in Newcastle