(Photos by David Crick.)

Thousands of revellers gathered to celebrate the Summer solstice at Stonehenge, near Salisbury, on Friday, June 21. Spectators were joined by pagans and druids — some worshipped, others partied. Many were there simply to enjoy the atmosphere.

More than 20,000 people were at the ancient monument to greet the sunrise at 4.52 AM at the start of the longest day of the year. After a warm, moonlit night the mist and mizzle descended, making it impossible to judge the moment when the sun rose over the Wiltshire plain without an accurate watch.

Frank Somers, Amesbury and Stonehenge druid, says the solstice occasion is about community and people standing in a circle communing with mother nature.

ISKCON devotees also participated at the event, joyfully singing and dancing.