UK braces for record temperature as first ever red heat warning comes into effect

Network Rail says to avoid trains unless absolutely necessary, with much of country covered by extreme heat alert

The UK's first ever red warning for exceptional heat came into force at midnight, with temperatures expected to climb up to 41C (105.8F) over the next two days, breaking the country's heat records.

Passengers have been urged not to travel by train from Monday as a record-breaking heatwave hits the UK, while the deputy prime minister said schools should not close and people should be resilient enough to enjoy the sunshine".