Tragedy has struck the summer solstice festivities in Derbyshire, with the shocking discovery of a 26-year-old man's body near the ancient Nine Ladies Stone Circle in Stanton Lees. The victim, identified as Isaac Clare-Watts from Nottingham, was formally named by Derbyshire Police on Tuesday afternoon, prompting a murder investigation that is gripping the local community.
The emergency services were called to the scene at approximately 13:38 BST on Monday, following reports of a body discovered near the stone circle. A 41-year-old man has since been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody as enquiries continue. Specialist officers are providing vital support to Mr Clare-Watts' family during this extremely difficult time.
Detective Inspector Tony Owen, leading the investigation for the East Midlands Special Operations Unit, has issued a poignant appeal for information from anyone who attended the summer solstice event over the weekend. He stressed that any account, no matter how small it may seem, could be crucial in piecing together the exact circumstances surrounding Mr Clare-Watts' death, which officers have described as being taken in a 'brutal way'.
A dedicated public portal has been set up by Derbyshire Police to allow members of the public to submit any relevant information they may have. Officers are keen to hear from anyone who was present at the Nine Ladies Stone Circle area between Friday, 19th June, and Tuesday, as their accounts could hold vital clues for the ongoing investigation.
The discovery has sent shockwaves through the local community, which is deeply attached to the historical site's cultural and spiritual significance. The stone circle, a popular location for summer solstice celebrations, attracts numerous attendees each year, making this incident all the more unsettling for those who frequent the area.