South of France faces “heat apocalypse” as thousands flee their homes

South-west France is facing a "heat apocalypse" say meteorologists, as extreme temperatures continue to hit much of Europe.

Temperatures are forecast to reach record levels in 15 regions of south-west France, as firefighters battle wildfires.

More than 24,000 people have been forced to leave their homes and emergency shelters have been set up accommodate them.

Blazes in Spain, Portugal and Greece are also affecting many thousands of people.

Gironde, a popular tourist region in southern France has been hit particularly badly, with fires raging through huge areas of woodland.