Despite signs of a so-called ‘false autumn’, with some drought-stressed trees already shedding their leaves, the charity’s tree experts say the ingredients are still there for a colourful season, particularly if the coming weeks bring cooler, settled weather. The high levels of sunshine over summer could also help produce strong colour in healthy foliage that remains.

Luke Barley, Senior National Specialist in trees and woodland at the National Trust, said: “The hot, sunny summer could still provide some of the ingredients for wonderful autumn colour, but the drought means the picture is likely to be more varied than usual.

He added: “The coming weeks will be crucial. Autumn colour always depends on a combination of factors, but after such an extraordinary summer the usual signals are much harder to read. Climate change is making our seasons more unpredictable and we're going to learn more this year about the impact of drought on autumn colour.”