CHILDREN and the elderly were the victims of record temperatures as surgeries and hospitals were inundated with patients.

Health officials reported a rise in the number of heat related illnesses and respiratory problems as temperatures soared in west Wiltshire.

The summer heatwave has been the hottest for 13 years with the stifling heat hitting a 34 degree peak.

A spokesman from the Royal United Hospital in Bath, said: "There has been an increase of patients in the hot summer and we have had unusually large amounts of heat related conditions.

"The hot weather exacerbates problems in the more vulnerable.

"Everyone should drink lots of water, wear a hat, sun protection and make sure they don't get sunburnt."

Surgeries across the region reported a rise in the number of heat related illnesses such as sunstroke and dehydration.

Others have reported shortage problems because many doctors are away on holiday.

One GP said; "At times we were overcome with people suffering from heat stroke."

Sun worshippers made the most of the sweltering weather packing west and north Wiltshire's parks, while clothes shops reported a downturn in trade other stores benefited with sales of paddling pools and electric fans in the county soaring.