Heatwave hits Royal Norfolk Show in Norwich

Visitors to the Royal Norfolk Show are being advised to bring plenty of sun cream

Five people have been taken to hospital from the Royal Norfolk Show on the hottest July day on record.

St John's Ambulance said it had treated about 100 people who were affected by the heat and other ailments at the Costessey showground, near Norwich.

Last year, it cared for about 150 visitors over the two days.

Temperatures reached about 31C (88F) in Norwich, according to the Met Office. About 85,000 people are expected to attend the show over the two days.

The organisers had said they planned to carry out animal safety checks during the event.

Agricultural displays will fill the show rings, with appearances from the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment and RAF Falcons Parachute Display Team.

Norwich City FC also unveiled its new strip on a catwalk at the showground.

About 3,000 animals will house the pens, stables and show rings at the annual agricultural event

Earlier on Wednesday, the Met Office issued a level 3 "heatwave action" alert and warned people to stay out of the sun and to keep drinking fluids.

The advice was reiterated by the organisers, who also told visitors to bring plenty of sun cream.

Ice creams were a big seller throughout the day as temperatures soared

A sofa graced by Taylor Swift during Radio 1's Big Weekend made a re-appearance inside the radio stand

Norwich City FC launched their new home kit, based on its first ever strip, on the show's catwalk

Show organisers have said checks will be made throughout the day to ensure the health of animals

Norfolk Police have warned of "significant" traffic delays at busy times.

"People are being reminded to take extra food and water with them for their journey and to try and keep cool in warm cars," the force said.

About 80 hours of displays will take place in the show rings.