Stonehenge: 14,500 see the sun rise

Happy Solstice!

Around 14,500 people decended on Stonehenge during the night to celebrate this mornings solstice. The sunrise was one of the best seen for many years, and as it's rays struck, the warmth and light was greeted with cheers, shouts and whistles.

English Heritage had provided what it called Managed Open Access, allowing people free access to the ancient site between 8pm last night and 9am this morning. A free stewarded car park was provided on the western side of the monument, which had around 3,500 vehicles enter during the night. A large number of police were present, but in a fairly relaxed mood, although New Traveller vehicles entering the car park were subject to police scrutiny, while other vehicles were not. Five arrests were reported, all for minor drug offences. English Heritage has branded the event a major success.

Entertainment was provided by samba bands, drummers and fire twirlers, while the crowds assembled inside and around the stones to appreciate the moment.

Happy solstice!

Check out the Stonehenge history and opinion.