AVEBURY stones will be shut off to visitors after the National Trust took a drastic decision to close most of the monument – which is part of the World Heritage Site - including the stone circle and West Kennet Avenue. The area is so waterlogged that the stones have become a danger to visitors and experts say keeping the site open could damage the archaeology.

It is the first time in 17 years the decision to shut off access to the stones has been made.

Jan Tomlin, of National Trust, said “We’ve not taken this decision lightly. Hopefully we will be able to open the areas in a few weeks and by taking these quite drastic steps now, we really can make sure that Avebury will be here for people to enjoy forever.”