'It's 50C in the polytunnel' — Workers tackle another heatwave

Workers in kitchens, on farms, and at outdoor job sites across the Channel Islands and South West England are dealing with some of the hottest temperatures ever recorded. Guernsey had its warmest June since records started in 1843, reaching 36.4°C (97.5°F) on June 25 — its hottest day ever. Plymouth recorded its fifth hottest day in 100 years, and Bude in Cornwall hit 31°C (87.8°F). People across the region are finding new ways to keep working safely in extreme heat.

There is no law in the UK, Guernsey, or Jersey setting a maximum working temperature. Employers are advised to reduce risks by offering ventilation, cold drinks, and rest breaks. Many businesses have gone further, adding their own steps to protect workers. Adrian Riley, who drives diggers outdoors for Guernsey Electricity, said workers look after each other by sharing water. He put it plainly: 'Nobody is a hero in this heat.'

John Tostevin, health and safety lead at Guernsey Electricity, said working near hot engines is like sitting in a sauna — made worse by wearing black protective overalls. He said stopping work is not an option, especially when power cuts happen. The company now provides extra rest and plenty of water on site. Tostevin added: 'We are now coming up with new ideas to allow us to work safely that we haven't had to think about before.'

At Lomah Farm in Jersey, Ollie Griggs grows vegetables and flowers inside polytunnels, which are large plastic-covered structures that trap heat. Temperatures inside hit 50°C (122°F) during the last heatwave. The farm now starts earlier and finishes earlier on the hottest days, and chickens receive shade and cool water every two to four hours. These changes help both the animals and the farm workers stay safe.

Paul Belhomme has worked at Jersey Post for over 30 years and said he has never seen hot conditions last this long. He believes the changing weather is a clear sign of climate change. 'Records have been broken, so it's definitely climate change we're seeing,' he said. Jersey Post has moved postal workers' start times earlier so staff can avoid the worst afternoon heat.

In Guernsey's hotel kitchens, chefs have adapted too. At the Rocquettes Hotel, pastry chef Lornah Ongechi said her team stayed hydrated and kept kitchen doors open for fresh air. She even switched to a lighter jacket, though it was still hot. At Moores Hotel, chef Freddie Pereira said working over hot pans in summer is 'part of the job but can still be difficult,' and he cools down with iced water and short breaks.

In Jersey, scaffolding company director Alex Wareham said managing deadlines in the heat has been hard, but workers have no choice but to carry on. The company lets staff start and finish early to avoid the worst of the day's heat. Blacksmith Joseph Evans, who forges metal for a living, said his workshop feels like a sauna. He and his team rely on one fan, take short breaks, and push through to the end of the day.

A Cornish theatre company called Ha Hum Ha is touring a period drama, The Scarlet Pimpernel, with cast members wearing wigs, heavy skirts, and frock coats. Actor and producer Ben Kernow said there is little they can do about the costumes. The team hides water bottles around the set, slows fight scenes in hot weather, and is grateful most costumes are made from breathable cotton and linen. Quick costume changes at least give cast members brief moments of cool air, even if changing while sweaty is awkward.

At Amary Farm in north Devon, temperatures inside the polytunnel reached 52°C (125°F) — the highest reported in this story. Worker Will Davis said the heat has completely changed the farm's schedule. The team now picks produce at 5:00 in the morning and stores it in fridges before packing veg boxes later in the day. Davis described watching basil wilt in his hands at 8:00 a.m. and said everyone must rethink how they approach the whole working day.