CROWDS of 24,000 gathered at the historic Wiltshire monument of Stonehenge for the summer solstice this morning.

Although the sunrise at a few minutes before 5am was obscured by cloud, celebrations remained "good-spirited" according to police.

There were four arrests for minor public order offences.

Police confirmed there were 24,094 at the annual event, compared to 18,700 people last year.

There were 3,577 vehicles at locations reserved for revellers, down almost 1,000 from last year with many people opting to use public transport.

Celebrations at Avebury stones also passed off peacefully.