South London and surroundings areas are set to escape the worst of an Arctic blast that has brought spring snow to parts of the country.

Sub-zero temperatures in Britain were lower than Finland as freezing weather swooped across the country.

The mercury plunged to -4.1C degrees in Northumberland, with Helsinki only managing -3C overnight.

Snow blew into parts of Scotland overnight and hail showers pelted Devon and Cornwall this morning.

Eastern Scotland was lashed with thunder and lightning storms that the Met Office expect could roll into the north of England.

The coldest temperature of -4.1C was recorded in Redesdale Camp in Northumberland last night.

South London will avoid snow, with temperatures sticking around 10 degrees Celsius, but there is the possibility of wintry showers.

But with wind chill being factored in, we are still advised to wrap up warm because it could feel as cold as minus 4 degrees.

Despite the freeze, the weather is a way off the coldest ever night temperature for the month which was a bitter -15C recorded in Cumbria on April 1, 1917 at Newton Rigg weather station.

Warmer weather is on the way with clouds rolling in, stamping out the frost.

Tomorrow morning is expected to be misty with showery spells throughout the afternoon.

On Saturday, temperatures in London should be in the mid-teens, 14 or 15C, perhaps rising to 16C on Sunday.

Although things are set to warm up, Britons should brace themselves for a wash-out bank holiday.

The Met Office said people should plan outdoor activities for Saturday because Monday will be soaked with showers.

Met Office spokeswoman Emma Sharples said: "We expect clouds and showers throughout Monday."

She continued: "The first part of the weekend looks dry but Sunday and Monday look more cloudy with more rainy weather."