Scots are set to enjoy temperatures in the high teens as the UK’s spell of warm weather continues into the weekend.

Thursday was the hottest April day for nearly 70 years, with the mercury soaring to 29.1C (84F) in St James’ Park in London.

Yesterday’s highs were expected to be around 28C (82F) in the south east, the Met Office said, with most parts enjoying warmer conditions than normal for the time of year.

“It’s going to be pretty hot again tomorrow, with a lot of sunshine around,” said meteorologist Alex Burkill.

“We will see highs of 26C, 27C and maybe 28C in the London area. Low 20s are likely for much of England and Wales, while Northern Ireland and eastern Scotland will see temperatures in the high teens.”

All four home nations enjoyed their hottest day of the year so far, with everywhere seeing a high of at least 20C (68F) on Thursday. The hot weather is the result of warm air moving up from the Azores in the south.

The London Marathon is forecast to be the hottest yet, with a high of 23C (73F) possible, beating the 1996 record of 22.7C (72.9F).

Mr Burkill said: “It’s going to be very hot and humid, and very close to, if not breaking the record.”

Race organisers said they will add more water, ice and shower stations.

Conditions may be especially difficult for fancy-dress runners. Regular runners are being advised to consider dropping their goal times and run more slowly.