THE ancient arches of Stonehenge rang to the sound of jungle drums and jazz saxophone today as thousands thronged the monument to mark the summer solstice.

About 21,000 people opted to banish Monday morning blues and brave the chilly temperatures to catch a glimpse of the sun rising between the ancient stones.

With druids and the occasional punk mingling happily with tourists and students, the atmosphere was a far cry from the angry scenes between police and revellers a decade ago.