Third person arrested following Stonehenge paint powder protest
A man in his 30s from Essex has been detained by Wiltshire Police
A third person has been arrested in connection with a protest by Just Stop Oil at the site of Stonehenge.
The environmental action group had taken to the Neolithic landmark as part of their efforts to raise awareness of climate change.
Two people were previously arrested following the demonstration, which saw them spray powder paint on the site, potentially damaging lichen that had gathered on the rocks.
Now, Wiltshire Police have confirmed Met Police officers in London have arrested a third person, a man in his 30s from Essex, on Thursday (June 27th).
The man was confirmed by the force to have been arrested on suspicion of aiding and abetting criminal damage, aiding and abetting unauthorised entry and damage to an ancient monument, and aiding and abetting aggravated trespass.
Speaking on the arrest, a spokesperson for Wiltshire Police said that the man was released on bail after being detained.
"Two other people, a man in his 70s and a woman in her 20s, previously arrested in connection with the incident remain on bail while we continue with our investigation," the spokesperson said.
"We are continuing to work with English Heritage and partners to progress our enquiries."
English Heritage said the lichen on the monuments were quickly cleaned by experts over fears the powder may damage the plants.
After investigations, English Heritage confirmed here was no visible damage from the paint itself, but the stone over time could be eroded.