ENGLISH Heritage is celebrating the tenth anniversary of the National Lottery by opening the jewel in its crown, Stonehenge, free of charge over the weekend of November 6 and 7.

The organisation is particularly grateful to the Lottery for making available a grant of £1.179 million towards a proposed new world-class visitor centre, improved facilities and better access into the Stonehenge landscape.

A planning application is currently with Salisbury District Council and, if successful, further funding of £25 million could be forthcoming from the Heritage Lottery Fund, which has already approved the first phase.

Stuart Maughan, head of visitor operations at the ancient monument, said: "The lottery funding will have a huge effect on this incredible site and we are delighted to show our appreciation by opening the site free to all over this birthday weekend."

Arts and Lottery Minister, Estelle Morris, said: "It is thanks to the public that over the past ten years the National Lottery has raised so much money for good causes.

"This money has made a tremendous impact on the lives of so many people. It is right that on its tenth birthday we take the opportunity to celebrate the Lottery's success and thank the players who have made these achievements possible."