People across Barking and Dagenham are being urged to stay cool, hydrated and to check on vulnerable neighbours during the extreme hot weather predicted this week.

The Met Office has issued a level 3 heatwave alert for London, running from today until Thursday, which means there is a 90 per cent chance of temperatures being high enough on at least two consecutive days to have a significant effect on health.

Advice includes avoiding going out in the hottest part of the day – 11am and 3pm – and when you do go out, stay in the shade, apply suncream and wear a hat or light headscarf.

You should also avoid extreme physical exertion and excess alcohol, drink plenty of water and eat cold food, especially salads and fruit with a high water content.

You can keep your home cool by closing curtains that receive morning or afternoon sun, turn off non-essential lights and electrical equipment, and should make sure you have enough food, water and any medication you need.