The UK could see record-high March temperatures as restrictions on outdoor gatherings are eased in England.

The south of England will be “very warm”, the Met Office said, and some areas in south-east England could see temperatures rise to 24C by Tuesday.

The warmer and brighter weather coincides with the relaxing of England’s lockdown on Monday, when the “stay home” order ends and groups of up to six people, or two households, are able to meet outside.

Temperatures in March have not gone above 24C since March 29 1968, when 25.6C (78F) was recorded in Mepal in Cambridgeshire.

Met Office forecaster, Greg Dewhurst said southerly winds along with an area of high pressure would move in on Monday.

He said: “Into next week large swathes of southern England and Wales will be dry with warmer temperatures than expected for this time of year, the average for March being 11-12C.

“The mercury could reach a high of around 18C on Monday, with Tuesday seeing highs of 24C (75.2F).

“Much of the UK will remain dry and bright until Wednesday, while parts of Scotland will see some heavy showers.”

By Easter weekend, cold air from the north may bring another dip in temperatures, with the Met Office forecasting showers spreading to most areas.

It said temperatures are likely to be around or below average for the time of the year, with a potential for widespread overnight frosts.