Hailing start of summer at Stonehenge 32.6

Degrees, in Centrigrade, reached at Charlwood in Surrey yesterday

- BY PHIL CARDY

SOME 25,000 people gathered at Stonehenge for the summer solstice sunrise - on the longest and hottest day of the year.

They cheered at the neolithic monument as the sun came up at 4.52am, signifying the end of spring.

English Heritage’s Richard Dewdney said: “This morning was a joyous and peaceful occasion with the most beautiful sunrise.

“From sunset to sunrise, there was a fantastic atmosphere enjoyed by all, making for a truly memorable experience” By lunchtime, it was 32.6C in Charlwood, Surrey, eclipsing the 32.2C experienced in parts of eastern England on Thursday.