RIDER Emma Smith, 14, took her horse Finley for a dip at Brightlingsea as the county enjoyed beautiful spring weather.

Temperatures rose to 14C as British summer time arrived on Sunday and the sun shone as early mist and fog cleared.

Colchester Castle Park was busy with visitors playing games or relaxing in the sunshine.

The pleasant climate was above the average for March of 9.5C – but way below the record – breaking 25.6C recorded in March 1968.

Forecasters are predicting a warm and sunny week ahead – with still no signs of rain.