Today could be the hottest Halloween on record if temperatures reach 21C as predicted. The October 31 record of 20C was set in Kent in 1968.

Early low cloud and fog patches will soon clear to leave a dry, bright and unseasonably warm day with plenty of sunny spells and a southerly breeze. Tonight will remain mild but breezy. Evening clear spells will give way to cloudier conditions from the west into the early hours, with a little rain possible towards dawn. Minimum Temperature 13C.

Saturday's weather will be cloudy with a little rain, with this gradually clearing eastwards to leave most areas with a bright and breezy end to the day, save perhaps the cloudier far east. Maximum Temperature 18C.

However, the unseasonably warm autumn could be followed by ice, snow and Arctic winds from November, say weather forecasters.