BOLTON is set to bask in spring sunshine this week with temperatures expected to reach 15C, according to the Met Office.

A band of high pressure will bring balmy conditions to the area.

And the pleasant, dry weather could be followed by the hottest ever spring on record, according to some forecasters.

It has been reported that April temperatures could reach as high as 26C.

And it couldn't come at a better time after a week of heavy rain and blustery gales.

A spokesman for the Met Office said: "A band of high pressure will mean it will be dry across most of the country, with patches of cloud in some places but with sunny spells.

“The best sunshine will be in the south and east, continuing through to Friday. By Thursday, we should be looking at temperatures of around 17C (in the south)."

In the Northwest, temperatures are predicted to hit 15C on Friday and are expected to be in double figures all week.

According to Brian Gaze, Weather Outlook forecaster, things are set to continue too.

He said: "With computer modles strongly favouring a warm spring there is potential for the record for the hottest spring to be challenged."

Last month saw the UK experience the hottest February day on record, with temperatures hitting 21.2C in Kew, west London, according to the Met Office.