Summer solstice at Avebury and Stonehenge in pictures

Around 8,000 people gathered at Stonehenge on Tuesday, June 20, to mark the occasion, but the Avebury stone circles also attracted visitors from far and wide for the longest day of the year.

A large police presence was in place at both sites and two arrests were made during the celebrations.

Both of these arrests took place at Stonehenge where two men, aged 31 and 56, were taken into custody at Gablecross on suspicion of public order after they were refused entry due to intoxication.

Despite this the gathering at Avebury passed without incident and those attending marked the occasion peacefully and safely, said police.

Chief Constable Catherine Roper, who joined the force in February, was at Stonehenge for the celebrations.

She said: "This was my first solstice and I have to say, what an incredible event it has been.

"I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who attended, our communities and the visitors to the site. Everyone has been joyous, enjoying the event and having a glorious time and it has been peaceful and safe.

“Thank you also to our partners, stakeholders and of course English Heritage, for working with us because collectively we have ensured that everyone could enjoy the event peacefully. And finally, thank you to our officers, staff and volunteers who worked through the night at such an incredible event.”

Several traffic measures were put in place over the course of the week, to ensure the solstice was enjoyed “safely”, and the High Street will remain closed to all vehicles, other than residents, until noon on Thursday, June 22.

Parking restrictions will also be in place during this time and the council have warned that those who park illegally will be towed away.

The Ridgeway at Overton Hill will reopen on Friday, June 23, and is currently shut between the A4 and the junction with Byway AVEB5.

Explaining the decision ahead of the event, Cllr Caroline Thomas, cabinet member for transport, said: “Avebury is a beautiful area with World Heritage Status, and therefore it's so important to protect and preserve it for generations to come.

“With that in mind, we still want people to be able to attend the site safely to enjoy the Summer Solstice.”