WARM weather bathed the town yesterday as people grasped the first opportunity to take out the shorts and sunglasses and bask in the sunshine.

Highs of 16C and clear blue skies made for a welcome break from the torrential downpours of recent weeks.

Businesses have been delighted at the turn in the weather as people have flocked to days out.

Katie Allen, events manager at Roves Farm in Shrivenham, said: “We had about 300 people through which has been fantastic, and more people are using the walks and the outdoor play areas.

“We had people sitting out in the sun having picnics, which is a really marvellous sign. All the daffodils are coming out as well, so everything is looking so much prettier and inviting.

“This really marks the start of the spring, because we start lambing next week. Because of all the rains the fields are still a bit sodden, so we will have to do it indoors.”

Laura Allmond, 30, of Wantage: “This has been the perfect opportunity to get out of the house. We have never come to Roves’ before, and the place is great for the little ones who are just getting old enough to appreciate the animals.”

Shelley Abitabile, 29, brought son Nico, four along for the day.She said: “We have been cooped up at home for so long and the kids love it here, and now they can get out and about on the tractors and the play areas.”

For the rest of the week temperatures are expected to drop once again with an average of 11 degrees celsius and cloudy spells.