Summer Solstice celebrated in Bolton with spectacular sunset

People gathered Rivington Pike to watch the sunset on the longest day and shortest night of the year, while others were up early to capture sunrise.

From capturing the beautiful sunrise up Rivington or seeing it when out and about, residents shared their wonderful pictures from Wednesday morning.

While the focus is usually on the historical site of Stonehenge to see the solstice today, Rivington Heritage Trust organised a local gathering to mark the day, described by many as mystical and enchanting and loved by those of a Pagan persuasion.

The sunset at 9.43pm and those gathered at Rivington Pike were treated to beautiful setting of the sun.

One said: "It is a beautiful evening and I have never celebrated it before, you always think of Stonehenge is the place to be.

"But to see the sunset on the longest day of the year is magical, and nature is always worth celebrating.

"Can you believe the days are set to get shorter now!"

Summer Solstice Volunteer Picnic and Celebration took place at Rivington Terraced Gardens and The Pike.

The three-hour event from 7pm to 10pm, saw people from across the borough joining together to enjoy the longest day of the year.

A spokesperson for Rivington Heritage Trust said: "Every year to mark the Summer Solstice, our volunteers gather for a picnic on the tennis lawn before taking a walk up the Pike to watch the sun set.

"It's a wonderful way to mingle all whilst celebrating our longest day of the year."

Solstices occur due to the Earth rotating on its axis, producing the day and night cycle, whilst it also orbits around the Sun.