Brits hoping for a sunny break over Easter may want to pack their brollies as the Met Office has issued a gloomy verdict for the upcoming spring holiday. In a fresh update covering April 17 to April 26, forecasters are warning of "much more mixed weather conditions" than seen in recent weeks, with low pressure systems sweeping in to bring heavy rain, showers, and even hail and thunder across parts of the UK.

The long-range forecast shows the potential for gusty winds accompanying many of the downpours, particularly during the first half of the period. Thunderstorms and hail are also on the cards, bringing the risk of travel disruption and outdoor plans being washed out.

A Met Office spokesperson said: “Some heavy rain and showers are likely at times with a risk of hail and thunder in places. Gusty winds will accompany some of the heavier showers.”

However, it’s not all doom and gloom.

The forecast hints at brighter and drier spells breaking through the grey skies at times, although large swathes of cloud cover are expected to linger across the country.

Temperatures, while not soaring, are likely to hover around seasonal averages, and may even edge slightly above at times.

Looking ahead to the end of the Easter period, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon.

The Met Office says there’s "a chance that more settled, drier but perhaps cooler weather could develop" as April draws to a close.

But for now, the classic British spring chaos is to be expected with the weather switching from sunshine to rain within minutes.

So if you were hoping to have a garden barbecue this Easter, it may be time to find back-up plans.