BBC News Online: UK

Druids coming home

The pagan orders were banned in 1988 after public disorder was sparked by a minority of travellers trying to revive a free festival at the ancient site.

Around 100 people have been given what English Heritage call "limited access" to witness the sun rising over the world-famous stones on June 21.

The exact make-up of the group has yet to be decided but representatives from Druid and other pagan groups will be among that number.

Arch Druid of Britain, Rollo Maughfling was delighted.

"We have been stood outside the stones at various important times of the year for 10 years.

"Obviously it is only limited access but we hope this will be increased and that we will get full access somewhere down the line."

The traditional summer solstice druid ceremony celebrates the symbol of fertility the oak tree at the monument.

"It's our most revered site, holiest of holy sites," said the Arch Druid.

Kevin Carlyon, High Priest of British White Witches, who also expects to be allowed onto the site, thinks a more serious approach by the pagan groups has lead to the decision.

He said: "We have shown how professional and committed we are and I think that has paid off.

"This is a brilliant step forward which ends 10 years of conflict. This is a religious ceremony for us and is of great importance."

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