ANIMALS and visitors basked in the sun at Smithills Open Farm as Bolton was hit with the hottest day of the year.

Thermometers reached 30C yesterday as the borough sweltered in a heatwave and families flocked to parks, farms and the town centre.

Smithills Open Farm saw an influx of visitors while the animals made the most of the sun and impromptu baths.

Manager Louise Blundell said: "We have been hosing the alpacas down and they love it. They like to roll around and lay down in the water. The pigs love to do that as well.

"All the horses and ponies had to have a bath first thing this morning before going out into the fields, while the hot lamps were turned off for the newborn animals.

"It has been really hot but the animals aren't bothered, they are quite sensible and just lie down and sunbathe — they don't have work to do!

"They can lounge around, particularly the wallabies who like to lie down on the bank in the sunshine.

"We keep a closer eye on them in the heat but they can handle themselves too. Some even dig up fresh, cooler dirt and roll around in it."

The RSPCA saw a spike in calls from members of the public concerned about dogs left in hot cars, conservatories, sheds and caravans.

Julie Ashcroft, from the Bolton branch of the RSPCA said: “We have received a number of calls from concerned members of the public about animals being left in places which they may overheat, including cars.

“We’ve been urging all pet owners to keep their animals cool and advertising on our social media pages how people can do this.

“We seriously urge dog owners not to leave their dogs in cars and if anyone sees a dog in a car, they should immediately call the police, who will be able to force entry and free any animals.”

Met Office forecaster Emma Sharples, said: “The weather in Bolton has been recorded at 30C although we’re expecting to see some thunderstorms move in.

“In terms of how long this heat is going to last it’s hard to say. We have issued a yellow weather warning of rain as we expect to see some wet weather.

“People will be having uncomfortable night’s sleep while the temperature stays this high, although it will become cooler as the weekend approaches.”

Dr Angie Bone, head of extreme events at Public Health England, said: "Now the heatwave has arrived people will likely be out and about more enjoying the summer sun.

“But it's important to remember that there are some people whose health suffers in hot weather. Older people, those with underlying health conditions and young children may all feel the ill-effects of heat over the coming days.

“We're urging everyone to keep an eye on those you know who may be at risk this summer. If you're able, ask if your friends, family or neighbours need any help.”