Freezing mist has descended on a packed British beach and cleared sunbathers on one of the hottest days of the year.

Freakish weather conditions today stunned visitors to Woolacombe Beach in Devon, who hoped to bask in scorching temperatures to kick off the bank holiday weekend.

It was claimed surfers, holidaymakers and sunseekers cleared the beach "in minutes" as temperatures suddenly dipped when cold fog-like conditions rolled over.

The virtually deserted sands were in stark contrast to other beaches and parks today which filled up with sun worshippers to make the most of the spring heatwave.

Temperatures across the country have soared to around 25C - making the UK warmer than popular sunny climes including Barcelona and Ibiza.


Sea mist engulfs the Woolacombe Beach in Devon 


The sands were virtually deserted after the mist rolled over 


The freezing fog caused temperatures to dip


Surfers are seen leaving the beach as fog rolls over