1996 escort 1.8 si overheating probs!

Just bought a 1996 escort 1.8 si estate, it runs very hot! I have checked thermostat which is fine, there's no blockages, fan kicks in fine, no coolant leaks, my brother who is a mechanic has checked it over but can't work out what's wrong, can anybody help please?

Many thanks.

this car is the same as a mazda 262 1.8 engine is noted for blowing head gaskets with out you knowing. ford owns mazda so last 5or 6 year models escorts they had mazda make this car so that said i suggest you start with a compression check look very close at the plugs for a hint of water damage.if you do not solve this problem the heads will warp crack licky split.engine is finish forever.theirs is no fixing this if this happens.it affects the block also you can not bolt another head on. been their done that never again i buy an escort.nice little car only if it had a engine worth its salt.