THREE hundred revellers broke a padlock in order to greet the dawning of the shortest day at Stonehenge this year - in defiance of an order from English Heritage to stay away until the following day, December 22.
The authorities have been in close contact with pagan groups to organise authorised access to the stones for the winter solstice.
But a large group tuned up 24 hours early and broke in to hold their own observances.
Druids, Maoris, New Agers and onlookers all joined hands and danced as the sun rose, forming a ring around the monument.
Their peaceful celebrations were accompanied by the sounds of drums and conch shells.
Among those who assembled were members of Ngati Ranana, a London-based Maori choir.
Police attended the event in support of English Heritage security staff, in case of trouble, but reported that the gathering was uneventful.
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