BENSON was Britain’s hottest place on Wednesday – with temperatures hitting a balmy 19C (66F).

The unseasonal weather was in stark contrast to the same day last year, when a sleet storm hit the village and temperatures rose to just 8.5C (47F).

Benson’s average temperature for October between 1971 and 2000 was 10.3C (50.5F), with an average maximum of 14C (57F). Figures are recorded at RAF Benson’s weather station.

Sue Hill, owner of gift shop Derry’s Den, in High Street, said: “It has been noticeably warmer, and also pretty humid. It’s very nice to still have the door open and to be able to leave the heating turned off, which also helps the environment.

“I guess after another disappointing summer, we’re due good weather at some point.”

Three more days of warm weather are expected before cooler conditions return.

This week has been one of the warmest ends to October on record.

Met Office spokesman Sarah Holland said: “Although temperatures are mild for this time of year, they’re not that unusual.

“The wind is currently coming from the south, which is bringing warm and mild air with it.”