TODDLERS, parents and grandparents braved sweltering temperatures today when they took part in a nursery's sports day.

More than 100 people packed onto the field in Hermon Hill, South Woodford, this morning for Trinity Hall Kindergarten's annual event.

There were initially fears the day would have to be cancelled because of the heat, with forecasters confirming today is the hottest day of the year so far.

But nursery staff and parents took special measures to ensure the children would not be disappointed.

Nursery owner, Maureen Cassidy, said: "In the past we've had to cancel the event because of the rain but this year it was completely different because it was so hot.

"We decided to be very careful and make sure most of the games were in the shade, and we made extra sure the children had enough suncream on.

"I think the parents suffered a bit as they had to stand in the sun as a result, but it was a really good day and everyone really enjoyed it.

"It's such an event, we had 80 children and lots of parents and grandparents taking part too. Some parents even took the day off work to attend."

She added: "We had races including a potato and spoon race - it's so much easier than using eggs."