Demand soars for paddling pools, fans and water in Newark as temperature hit 39C
The soaring temperature has triggered an intense search for paddling pools, fans and water.
With temperatures set to hit a historic high of 40°C, it seems Newark residents are avoid being exposed to the sun, at least without suncream, hat, sunglasses or today's essential — water.
Shopper in Newark were spotted buying fans, paddling pools, or just enjoying stores' air conditioning.
“We have a few fans left but not many, sales have skyrocketed! Fans and pool sales have been insane!” Argos workers told the Advertiser.
Across the street from Argos, Honeytrap Lingerie store and a Neverland bookshop closed on Monday and Tuesday because heatwave.
Kim Chow, of Newark, was in Argos to buy a pedestal and desk fan to help keep her hamsters cool as animals are also struggling to cope with the heat.
As news spread that Yorkshire Trading Company on Middlegate had fans and inflatable pools in stock, shoppers flocked to the shop.
“Somebody just put on Facebook that we’ve got fans and inflatable pools and the phone has been non-stop since,” said Kristy Bell, the shop supervisor.
“We’ve sold about 15 fans in the last half an hour. Apparently, we are the only place in Newark who has fans left.
The shop had a delivery this morning (Tuesday) of ten 9ins desk fans and six pedestal fans, which the stock won’t get renewed until Thursday.
There are still plenty of small paddling pools at the Yorkshire Trading Company for sale, however, bigger ones are already sold out.
As water is essential to stay hydrated under this weather, people run to shops such as Waitrose and Asda, emptying the shelves of bottled water.
Ice cold deserts, such as lollies and cheesecakes, are also in high demand.
The ones who dare facing the heat have two goals for the day — to not burn and to enjoy a cold refreshing drink.
“The aim for today is to stay at the pub, drink, try to stay hydrated as much as you can , try not to burn as it is the hottest day in history and I am prepared for it but at the same time I am not," said Gordon Ryles, of Newark, who was with a friend in the castle grounds.
“But I am looking forward to today, it’s going to be really fun. And hot, really hot.”
Although people were seen in and out of shops, cafés and parks, most seem to be heeding health warnings to stay inside.
At the Riverside Parlour, the ice-cream shop near Riverside Park, workers admitted: “It’s been dead, nobody comes out in this heat.”
One place that is proving popular, however, is Wheelgate Park outdoor splash play, is a huge draw for families wanting to cool down.
But what about you? What are your plans for the hottest day of the year?
Share your today’s plans in the comments below or some media content in our social media.
