A YORK veterinary practice is warning owners not to let their pets suffer in the sun as a mini-heatwave looms this weekend.

Forecasters expect maximum temperatures to soar from 20C tomorrow to 23C on Sunday and 25C by Monday and Tuesday, with sunny periods and only gentle breezes.

The fine weather is expected to continue through next week and into the first week of July, as high pressure remains over or near the UK, blocking the Atlantic rainfall and wind that so often blights the British summer.

Forecasters are agreed that more fine weather appears likely over the rest of the summer.

But Tower Vets in York has warned pet owners that while hot weather is great news for humans, it can be uncomfortable and unhealthy for their animals.

A spokeswoman said vets expect to see an increase in the number of pets coming into their surgery with heat-related symptoms and said owners should never leave pets unattended in cars.

"Excessive panting, anxious pacing or, in severe cases, collapsing or convulsing can be signs that your pet could be suffering from heat stroke and you should contact your vet immediately," she said.