Ref. 30801-90A PLANETARY phenomenon last witnessed more than century ago has been enthralling Wiltshire stargazers. Known as the Venus transit, the event gives people the rare chance to watch the distant planet as it crosses in front of the sun.

The phenomenon, which only happens around four times in 243 years, will happen again in about nine years. But after that, such a sight will not reappear in our skies for another 120 years.

It was the first Venus transit since 1882 and the last time it was observed from the UK was in 1283.

On that occasion, long before the invention of the telescope, the phenomenon went unnoticed.

During yesterday, Venus crossed the lower portion of the sun for six hours, beginning at around 6.20am before completing the transit shortly after midday.

Phillip Perkins, an astronomer from Ramsbury, near Swindon, received thousands of emails from stargazers across the world after he set up a special internet broadcast of the event using two telescopes in his back garden.

Mr Perkins explained: "It was an amazing display, but like thousands across the world I watched on my computer screen. It is exciting to see something that has never been seen by a living person."

In a spontaneous event at Lower Shaw Farm in West Swindon visitors could watch the transit as it happened through dark glasses or via a camera lens.

Matt Holland said: "It was unbelievable. It was like being in love. We got up at 6.20 on this glorious sunny day and wanted to share the sight with as many people as possible. They came in their droves."

You can find out more about the Venus Transit by visiting: www.astrocruise.com