Stonehenge's Summer Solstice celebrations CANCELLED
The event will be live streamed instead
English Heritage has confirmed that the Summer Solstice celebrations at Stonehenge will not be going ahead as planned this year.
The decision follows the change in the Government's 'roadmap', which has seen the lifting of lockdown restrictions set back to July 19.
Plans were "well underway" for this weekend's event, with people wanting to attend in groups of up to 30.
However, the delay means only the Pagan and Druid Community will now be able to mark the solstice in person.
'The announcement this week left us with no choice'
Nichola Tasker, English Heritage's Director for Stonehenge, said:
"We share people's disappointment with this decision, we were busy getting ready to welcome everyone for Summer Solstice but the announcement this week left us with no choice.
"We're working with the Pagan and Druid community to ensure that small groups can still mark in person what is a very important moment for them.
"We will be live-streaming the Summer Solstice for free so that wherever you are, you can still enjoy the sight of the solstice sun over the ancient stones".
According to English Heritage, the cancellation came after discussions with Wiltshire Council's Public Health team and Wiltshire Police.
'Restrictions are still in place for a reason'
Kate Blackburn, Director of Public Health at Wiltshire Council, said:
"We know this will be disappointing for those who wanted to visit Stonehenge. However, it is important we recognise restrictions are still in place for a reason and we all need to play our part to stay safe.
"I would encourage people to view the Summer Solstice online and I want to thank people in advance for their understanding and co-operation".
Both the Summer and Winter Solstice's were cancelled last year, but to ensure people didn't fully miss out, the event was live streamed on English Heritage social media channels.
5.2 million people enjoyed the summer occasion in 2020 and they will be able to do the same this year.
Residents can get involved by visiting the English Heritage website.