A RED deer stag stands silhouetted against a moody sky in this classic autumnal scene, captured by photographer Anthony Chappel-Ross in the grounds of Studley Royal.

It has been an unusually warm October this year. Hallowe'en was the warmest October 31 on record, with temperatures on Friday reaching 70F – eight degrees above the average for this time of year – in some parts of the country.

By late October, however, the traditional reds and golds of autumn were apparent everywhere, as Anthony's photographs reveal, particularly his stunning shot of Castle Howard reflected in one of its lakes.

Don't get too used to the mild conditions we've been enjoying recently.

This week will see a marked change in the weather, with cooler, brighter and more showery conditions, some slight overnight frosts possible - and temperatures if anything a bit below average for the time of year. It is going to feel cold in comparison to the recent mild weather – but also fresher.