After years of rainy summers good weather has finally arrived - but the authorities want to make sure it does not come at a cost.

Temperatures hit 32c in Sutton yesterday and experts say the summer is here to stay. The warm weather has had revellers out frolicking in the borough's parks and open spaces but people have been warned to make sure they enjoy it safely and considerately.

Thousands of people were attracted to Beddingtton Park over the weekend but with sun seekers comes rubbish, and one shocked resident said the park was left in a "disgraceful" state on Saturday.

Over 350 sacks of litter were cleared by council staff from the park in three days over last weekend.

Lisa Trevallion, from Beddington, said: "Whilst walking my dogs, I was shocked and disgusted by the amount of rubbish left at the barbecue areas. I'm appalled how parents think it is acceptable to leave their rubbish in this way. It's a disgrace. It is such a shame as this is a lovely place for families to use, especially if they don't have access to a garden at home. The action of some will ruin it for others."

Councillor Jill Whitehead, chairwoman of the environment and neighbourhood committee said: "While it's great that so many people are enjoying our borough’s parks I urge them to be respectful to others and clear away any rubbish they create."

Meanwhile doctors and nurses from Epsom, Sutton and St Helier hospitals are urging local people to enjoy the sun safely over the next few weeks, as high temperatures are set to stay.

Dr Martin Stockwell, joint medical director, said, "During weather like this, our accident and emergency teams often see an increase in the number of people suffering from sunburn, heat exhaustion and dehydration.

"We would urge anyone spending time outdoors, and especially those preparing for fun-runs, marathons or any outdoor sporting event in the sun, to take extra care, wear at least 15+ sun lotion, ideally a hat, and drink plenty of fluids. It's vital people look after themselves in this heat."