Summer solstice sun rises on Stonehenge as thousands gather

Around 23,000 people converged at the UK's popular neolithic site Stonehenge today to witness the sun rise above the horizon through the timeless stones for its longest day on earth or the summer solstice.
One of the wonders of the world, the 17 or so other rock types standing for about 4,600 years in Wiltshire provided a spectacular view at sunrise to the crowd, that included hippies and pagans, waiting for a glimpse of the sun despite cloud in the area.
Others also visited the nearby Avebury stone circle amid apprehension that cloud and rain would spoil the view. However, some visitors to the ancient site, some 156 kms from here, said this year's solstice sunrise was one of the best they had seen.

The figure was down on the estimated 36,000 who attended last year and the 30,000 expected, but they were able to get a glimpse of the sun after it came over the horizon at 4.52 am, The Guardian reported.
"This year the crowds were able to see the sun as it appeared over the horizon, before it disappeared under low cloud," Superintendent of Police Gavin Williams said.
Over a million people flock to Stonehenge every year, with thousands attending ceremonies to mark the solstices in summer and winter - either of the two times in the year when the sun reaches its highest or lowest point in the sky at noon, marked by the longest and shortest days.

Stonehenge is believed to have been used as an important religious site by early Britons 4,000 years ago. The more recent pagan celebrations at the site began in the 20th century.
"The success of the event depends largely on the good nature of those attending and we are pleased that people could enjoy solstice in the spirit of the event," Williams said.
Arrests were lower than this time as compared to previous years, with nine persons being held for drugs offences at Stonehenge and a handful being cautioned for possession of Class A drugs, while no arrests were made at Avebury, according to the police.