Monday 22 June 2009

Thousands gather to welcome Summer Solstice at Stonehenge



Thousands of visitors were present for the dawn of the Summer Solstice yesterday at Stonehenge.

The event, which celebrates the longest day in the Northern Hemisphere, involved around 36,500 people gathering at the reputedly mystical South England landmark before sunrise, which occurred at 0458 BST.

Turnout at Summer Solstice has grown year on year at Stonehenge since a four mile exclusion zone around the site was taken off nearly a decade ago. This year, events marking the day included Druid ceremonies, Morris dancing, music and camping at the site.

Police presence was fairly strong at the Wiltshire landmark, though the event was said to be peaceful and enjoyable for the thousands of attendees spending their Sunday morning there.

According to the BBC, Superintendant Nick Ashley said: "The celebration has been peaceful and enjoyable for the majority who were present to celebrate in a safe manner."

Head of Stonehenge, Peter Carson, added: "We were expecting it to be busy this year, but we had ensured that it has been a peaceful and enjoyable solstice.

"There has been a great atmosphere and where else would you want to be on midsummer's day?"

Revellers ensured they arrived at the prehistoric monument in time for the sun rising, with 6,500 cars filling the car park two hours before the due time.

Just before the key event, Druid King Arthur Pendragon told the BBC: "It's a very nice atmosphere and everything's fine at the moment.

"There have been more police present this year, more security, but everything's passed off very jovially and everyone's in a good mood."

Sunrise 4:58am

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