Twenty thousand people have celebrated the longest day of the year at Stonehenge. Visitors from far and wide as well as closer to home watched and cheered from inside the stone circle as the sun rose over the ancient monument and the Wiltshire plains. Drumming, music and dancing kept people entertained throughout Sunday night and Monday morning. And The Ancestor – a giant metal sculpture of ancient man, on his knees, head thrown back and his arms outstretched to welcome the sunrise – towered over the entire proceedings.
"This is the eleventh year that English Heritage has provided free access to the stones," Peter Carson, Head of Stonehenge, said. "Over the last decade, the solstice has been a peaceful celebration enjoyed by thousands of people. This success is due to English Heritage working closely with the key partners and together delivering an enjoyable and safe solstice."