Cumbria is poised to cash in on the hottest weekend of the year so far with temperatures expected to hit 26C.

Forecasters are predicting perfect bank holiday conditions - fuelling hope of a bank holiday boom for businesses and visitor attractions.

Hotels, B&Bs, cafes, restaurants and attractions are likely to be busier throughout the weekend as forecasters say Cumbria is set to become "increasingly hot" towards the end of the week.

A Met Office spokeswoman said high pressure is in control and north Cumbria can expect to see pleasant conditions throughout the week and into the weekend when temperatures could warm up to about 26C.

"Tuesday could be the last day you will see anything in terms of rain for a few days with high pressure generally in control and increasing amounts of sunshine looking likely for the rest of the week," she said.

"Wednesday will be a cloudier day, perhaps a few spots of rain around, but on the whole, mostly dry."

Temperatures today (TUES) could reach about 19C in the best of any sunshine.

Although there might be more in the way of cloud on Wednesday, temperatures are likely to remain in the mid to high teens.

"Temperatures should build day on day really," said the spokeswoman. "There will be increasing amounts of sunshine on Friday and Saturday with temperatures in the low twenties.

"Over the weekend you should probably get into the mid-twenties.

"There will be very pleasant conditions at the start of the weekend.

She explained however that a weather front is set to develop down the far west of the UK and is likely to start to edge eastwards towards the end of the weekend.

Throughout the week UV levels are expected to be high and people are reminded to wear protection even during cloudier days.

Commenting on the weekend ahead, Ian Stephens, managing director of Cumbria Tourism, said he was confident the good weather would have a positive impact on the number of visitors to the county.

"All the signs from tourism businesses are looking positive and let’s hope for the busiest weekend of the year so far," he said.

"The bank holiday gives the perfect opportunity for people to get out and explore some of Cumbria’s hidden gems and as always there are plenty of things to do across the county."

This weekend's events include Party in the Park in Workington and Within the Walls free music event in Carlisle.