After a couple of cool(ish) days with maximums between 18C & 19C, summer
has returned today with prolonged sunshine (unbroken all afternoon) and
a maximum temperature of 21.3C. Over 11 hours of the stuff so far today.

It was strong sunshine too and has topped the slightly fading tan back
up (UV of 6). The sun's elevation is dropping rapidly and is now at 47
degrees but it is still high enough to have a real kick to it and down
on the beach (being a south facing coast with high cliffs behind), it
was a scorching sun was a times, stinging on the skin.

We went for a walk along the beaches from Salcombe Regis to Branscombe
as the tide was very low this afternoon. The sea was glassy calm which
is unusual but the advantage of that is that it was crystal clear so
made for some of the best snorkelling in a long while. Walked back via
the coast path and this was lined with more wildflowers than normal for
the time of year; oregano was in flower and filling the air with its
scent.

--
Nick Gardner
Otter Valley, Devon
20 m amsl
http://www.ottervalley.co.uk