Summer solstice 2020 hotspot Stonehenge patrolled by security guards and druids ahead of ‘virtual sunrise’
SECURITY guards are patrolling Stonehenge today as druids prepare to celebrate the summer solstice with a 'virtual sunrise'.
Thousands of druids, hippies and party goers who would usually flock to the monument on Salisbury Plain, Wiltshire, to mark the longest day of the year, have been asked to do so from home instead.
This year's event was cancelled by English Heritage due to coronavirus.
The sunrise and sunset will instead be live-streamed online for the first time - although some senior druids have insisted they will still make their way to the site today.
This morning security guards were seen stationed close to Stonehenge in a bid to ward off rule breakers.
One security guard in a high-vis jacket was seen warding off potential rule breakers.
Wiltshire Police also said that officers would patrol the area to ensure people stayed away.
Senior druid King Arthur Pendragon told it was his "right" to "be as close as is legally possible" to Stonehenge to watch the solstice and promised to keep a social distance from anyone he encountered.
Today the UK is set to enjoy 16 hours and 38 minutes of sunlight, beginning when the sun rose at 04:43 this morning.
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Speaking of the cancelled celebrations, English Heritage said: "We can't welcome you in person this year because of the measures in place to combat coronavirus – but our live coverage of sunset and sunrise means you won't miss a moment of this special occasion.
"Our cameras will capture the best views of Stonehenge, allowing you to connect with this spiritual place from the comfort of your own home."
The virtual live stream will start at 21:26 BST for sunset today and again at 04:52 BST on Sunday for the sunrise.
