THE Neolithic monument of Stonehenge has been a source of mystery and wonder for generations.

Now English Heritage is calling on people in Wiltshire to come up with theories on why the landmark was built.

The Wiltshire Times has joined English Heritage to offer 20 family passes to Stonehenge and Old Sarum to readers who come up with the most innovative ideas.

The origins of Stonehenge can be traced back to the Stone and Bronze ages, making the monument between 3,000-5,000 years old.

The stones used to construct the circle can be traced to the Preseli Hills in Pembrokeshire, west Wales.

A raft of theories surround why Stonehenge was constructed and what purpose it served.

The earliest mention of the circle was made in 1135 by chronicler Geoffrey of Monmouth, who believed a group of giants brought over the stones from Africa to Ireland.

They were later flown across the sea to Wiltshire by the legendary wizard Merlin.

Other far-out theories include that of 17th century architect Inigo Jones, who was convinced the stone circle was a Roman temple.

This theory is particularly astonishing bearing in mind Jones was widely respected as the first significant English architect responsible for the revival of classical architecture. At the time, Jones was the surveyor-general of Royal Buildings to James I.

Only 40 years ago theories were still materialising thick and fact.

Gerald Hawkins, an American astronomer used a modern computer to support his claims that Stonehenge was an ancient computer.

His 1966 book Stonehenge Decoded shows how a large number of astronomical alignments, prediction and measuring devices associated with the sun and moon can be found among Stonehenge's megalithic stones and holes.

The monument has recently been voted Best Historic Site in a UKTV History Channel poll.

  • To enter the Wiltshire Times and English Heritage competition tell us in no more than 100 words what you think Stonehenge was originally used for. Send your answers to Craig Evry, News Editor, Wiltshire Times, 15 Duke Street, Trowbridge, Wiltshire, BA14 8EF or email cevry@newswilts.co.uk Entries must be received by Sunday. Experts from English Heritage will select 20 winners, all of which will receive a family pass (up to two adults and three children) to Stonehenge and Old Sarum Castle during normal opening hours.