Watch what you had to say as sunshine and soaring temperatures see crowds flocking to South Shields seafront

Car parks were at capacity as families made the most of the school summer holiday heatwave.

The Met Office forecast for today (Thursday, August 11) predicted peak temperatures of 25°C across South Tyneside – the equivalent of 77°F.

And with a good breeze along the coast to take the edge off the heat, sunseekers were making the most of the opportunity.

Johnny Lakey had travelled all the way from Chester-le-Street with James, seven, and four-year-old Elizabeth, to relive memories of his youth.

"I used to come here when I was little, so there are lots of memories for me,” said Johnny, 35.

"And it’s not too bad a drive – it’s only 20 minutes or so. It is a nice clean beach and the sea is great for the kids.”

Johnny is keeping his fingers crossed the good weather continues.

“It has been lovely – hopefully it is going to remain for next week,” he added.

Grandad Steve Hartley was reading his paper as he kept a watchful eye on grandsons Finley, nine, and seven-year-old James as they played in the water.

Steve, 65, had made the long haul from Westoe Crown to enjoy the day.

“It is my home town and it is a lovely beach,” he said.

"It is fantastic for the kids and it is always nice and clean. We use the coast a lot.”

He was enjoying soaking up the sun: “It’s lovely,” he added.

Also on grandchild sitting duty were Kathleen and Dave Milbourne, from South Shields.

They had nine-year-old twins Alfie and Harry, from Prudhoe, staying with them.

"The weather has been beautiful yesterday, today and hopefully will be tomorrow,” said Dave, 73.

Kathleen, 66, said the family was enjoying the sun but taking no risks: “You have to be very careful not to burn in this weather.”

Gran Jackie Twinn had travelled through from Durham with grandchildren Marni, six, and seven-year-old Kobie Twinn, as well as their uncle Carl Twinn, 34, and his friend Amy Dwyer, 23.

"I am from Marsden originally and I come back whenever I can,” said Jackie.

"It is the best beach in the world, especially when the weather is this great.”