The coming weekend is expected to be rather mild, with temperatures of 16-17C likely across many areas.
This weather bonanza will not last, however, as temperatures are forecast to plunge by next week as wintry weather begins to bite.
The weekend will see little or no rain, with good sunny spells at times, particularly around the midlands and east of the country.
Sunday will be a similarly dry and settled day, with good sunshine.
The outlook is for fresher temperatures by Monday and Tuesday, and a spell of cold weather beginning towards the end of the week.