OXFORD'S sweltering summer is set to get even hotter with temperatures topping 27C by next week. 

Meteorologists have predicted the warm weather already enjoyed so far this year was only a taste of things to come with a heatwave on the way.

After a sunny weekend, tropical air from the Atlantic Azores islands will lead to temperatures climbing ever higher with highs of 25C predicted on Monday and Tuesday and warmer still the week after.

We could see the hottest day of the year so far on Wednesday or Thursday with temperatures of 27C predicted. 

Oxford Mail: Above: The ten day forecast

Forecasters have warned it will feel very humid and may be uncomfortable for some people. 

But with the country enjoying the longest day of the year on Thursday, there's plenty of time to enjoy the sun. 

In contrast to the last bout of seriously hot weather, when thunderstorms and flash flooding caused chaos across the county, things are predicted to remain largely settled this time around.

Looking further ahead, there appears to be no end in sight for the hot weather with highs of 30C predicted in parts of the country in July.

Betting company Coral is now offering 2-1 on 2018 turning out to be the hottest year on record.

The forecasts come as good news for those planning trips to this weekend's Tandem Festival near Witney.