Giant airship marks Stonehenge's bid to become recognised throughout the world

DRUIDS chanted as a giant blue airship soared above Stonehenge on Tuesday, as part of the monument's bid to become one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.

The event was the latest stage of the New7Wonders World Tour, which is taking place to highlight the 21 finalists in the competion, and Stonehenge was the seventh monument to get a visit from adventurer and New7Wonders founder Bernard Weber.

Early in the morning the group of druids stood amongst the stones to perform a Samhain - the Pagan forerunner of Hallowe'en - blessing ceremony.

Archdruid of Stonehenge, Rollo Maughfling, said: "Druids believe that Stonehenge is as relevant now as when it was constructed."

Following the ceremony, founder Bernard Weber handed the official candidacy certificate to Peter Carson, Stonehenge Director from English Heritage.

The World Tour started on September 5 at the Acropolis, Athens, and will go on to visit finalists such as the Great Wall of China, the Taj Mahal and one of the original ancient wonders, the Pyramids of Giza.

It ends with the Statue of Liberty in March. Mr Weber is making the tour to encourage people to vote for their seven wonders before July 6 next year.

The winning wonders will be announced at a gala broadcast worldwide from Lisbon, Portugal on July 7 (07/07/07) and half of all the money raised by the project will be used to fund restoration efforts worldwide.

Stonehenge, managed by English Heritage, is the only UK site to be shortlisted so to back Britain and pledge your support for Stonehenge vote online at www.new7wonders.com or text Stonehenge to 61188. Text messages cost 50p plus standard operator charges.