Wiltshire's police chief has praised the Summer Solstice festival at Stonehenge after attending the iconic event for the first time.

Chief Constable Catherine Roper joined the force in February of 2023 replacing predecessor Kier Pritchard.

And one of the biggest events in the calendar is attending and safeguarding the Summer Solstice event held at Stonehenge each year.

This year’s event fell on Tuesday evening with masses flocking to the stones to celebrate the moment and proceedings ran smoothly according to Ms Roper.

“I just wanted to say a huge thank you to our communities, tourists and the people who have visited this incredible event,” she said.

Swindon Advertiser: Chief Constable Catherine Roper was at Stonehenge for Summer Solstice.Chief Constable Catherine Roper was at Stonehenge for Summer Solstice. (Image: Wiltshire Police)

“Everyone has been joyous and enjoying the events and having a really glorious time. It has been peaceful and it has been safe.

“Collectively we have made sure that people have come and been able to enjoy this incredible moment of the year.”

Summer Solstice attracts thousands, from pagans and druids to families and tourists, as it's one of the only times of the year to get up close to the stones.

The festival was celebrated at Stonehenge from 7pm on Tuesday evening until 8am on Wednesday morning.