OXFORD is set to bake in highs of 18C this weekend, but residents are being urged to stay at home on lockdown and follow social distancing guidelines.

Sunnier skies will return to the city centre today and tomorrow with the mercury soaring to highs above Greece. 

Temperatures are likely to reach 18C tomorrow afternoon - beating the forecast in Athens of light rain and highs of 15C.

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But the warm weather will only be enjoyed by residents taking their hour of exercise or relaxing in their gardens as Boris Johnson has put strict rules on the country to stay inside and save lives.

Under new rules, people can only leave their homes under a list of very limited purposes like emergencies, shopping for vital supplies or going to work if they cannot do it from home. 

Oxfordshire County Council wrote on Twitter: "With the evenings getting lighter and with warmer weather forecast for this weekend there'll be a huge temptation for people to head outdoors and enjoy the sunshine - stay at home to protect yourself, protect the NHS and save lives." 

While Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Services are asking people to avoid starting fires.