IT'S all set to be one of the best Easters yet in Teignmouth.

The mini-heatwave is forecast to continue during the long weekend, and it could mean a bonanza for traders as holidaymakers, day trippers and residents flock to the beaches.

The sunshine and calm seas lured thousands to Teignmouth and Shaldon during the week, and it seemed like high summer rather than April as the temperature soared.

Families enjoyed traditional seaside fun and games on the Den and the beaches, and several braved the still chilly waters. Barbecues were lit for picnics, the skate park and playpark on the seafront were heaving, cafes did a roaring trade with nearly everybody seeming to be licking ice creams, pub beer gardens were packed, and the feelgood factor went on until the sun sank over Dartmoor.

Teignbridge resorts officer Tracey Higgs declared: 'The sun is shining and everybody has a smile on their faces.

'We are expecting big crowds all over Easter and people are just so glad to see some great weather after such a harsh winter.

'But we would urge everybody to be aware that the sun is virtually just as fierce now as it is in mid-summer. We do not want to see people, especially l From page 1

children, suffering from sunburn, so our advice is to be safe and tan slowly with plenty of sun cream and other cover.

'I am told the holiday camps at Dawlish Warren are full, and our car parks, especially the Point at Teignmouth, are going to be really busy.

'Even if the rest of the summer is not so good, we will at least to be able to enjoy a fantastic Easter. It is weather like this that makes us all how lucky we are to live in such a beautiful part of the country.'

Teignmouth Traders Association is doing its bit to brighten up the town. As part of the St George's Day festival traders have strung up more than 120 flags, 100 sets of ribbon and bunting, and many decorated their shops.

Iain Palmer, the events chairman, said: 'It is looking good, and the weather is just the boost we need in the economic downturn.

'Visitors are commenting on how good the town looks, and even the blooms have come out early, adding splashes of colour.'

There is a host of events around the town until May 3, including a medieval encampment on the Den, Morris dancers, a children's fancy dress competition and drawing contest, jazz gigs, folk singing, street musicians, an Edwardian walk along the prom, an Easter bunny run, and a tea party on the Den.

Visit website Teignmouthtradersassociation.co.uk.