Business booms as Merseyside bakes in sunny weather

Mar 26 2012 by Liam Murphy, Liverpool Echo

THE first day of British Summer Time lived up to its name as Merseyside sizzled amid unseasonably high temperatures.

And, according to the forecasts, the good weather is expected to continue for a few more days before turning cooler.

Merseysiders made the most of the sunshine, flocking to the region’s beaches, beer gardens and tourist attractions.

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According to the Press Association Weather Centre, Liverpool recorded a top temperature of 18 degrees – warmer than the Greek holiday island of Skiathos, and Malaga, in Spain.

Coastguards also recorded increased levels of calls, largely concerning jet skiers who had either broken down or looked like they were in trouble, although a spokesman last night said there were no major incidents.

Despite the high tides, mid-afternoon sun seekers flocked to the region’s best beaches, with many heading to Crosby, West Kirby and New Brighton.

Doug Darroch, curator of Fort Perch Rock, in New Brighton, said the fine weather had helped give this year’s tourist season a kick-start. He said the beaches at the resort were “rammed” with people making the most of the sunshine.

Mr Darroch said: “It was chocka here – a great day. All the other businesses I’ve spoken to have done tremendously and, if the rest of the year is anything like this, then everyone is in for a great time at all tourist attractions and the seaside.”

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A spokeswoman for the PA Weather Centre said Liverpool had seen a maximum temperature of 18 degrees, while Crosby recorded a high of 17.3 degrees.

She said: “It looks like this quite nice weather is set to continue for the next couple of days, with maximum temperatures of 17-18 degrees, dropping to around 13 on Thursday and 10 on Saturday, but still staying dry and bright. It will just turn a little cooler.”