Ditch the brollies and rain coats... Medway is set for the hottest day of the year so far.

With the sun shining brighting since early this morning, highs this afternoon could reach 23C, which would make it hotter than parts of Italy and Greece.

Tomorrow is set to soar to even higher temperatures, with maximum temperatures hitting 24C.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has is urging dog owners to be extra vigilant give the extreme temperature change.

They have highlighted seven simple steps to help keep dogs safe as the temperature rises:

• Don’t leave them in vehicles
• Make sure they always have water to drink
• Provide adequate ventilation at all times
• Avoid exercising them in the heat of the day

• Provide shade from the sun in the hottest part of the day
• Watch out for early signs of heatstroke such as heavy panting
• Contact a vet immediately if the dog does not respond to efforts to cool it down.

The heat will not last long though - the thermometer mercury is set to plummet to 16C again by Thursday.