The weather is set to turn cold towards the end of this week - but snow is unlikely, according to forecasters.

The Met Office and Essex Weather Centre both warn of a dip in temperatures this week and a cold weekend.

Essex had enjoyed a mini heatwave with temperatures above average for this time of year.

However, this is set to end this week.

A Met Office spokesman said: "It will turn a lot colder as we head towards Friday and the weekend and the wind turns more northerly - we might see some sleet and wet snow in northern areas.

"It will be a bit of a shock to the system because it's been fairly mild recently and there will be a considerable drop in temperature."

The Essex Weather Centre tweeted: "First cold snap of the season arrives towards the end of next week and into the weekend.

"Temperatures falling below average (day and night) locally and maybe a wintry shower.

"Any snow looks limited to Scotland/Northern hills. Time to dig the winter clothes out!"