Hundreds gather to watch eclipse on hillside

Hundreds of people have gathered to catch a glimpse of the partial solar eclipse on a Hertfordshire hillside.

The Letchworth and District Astronomical Society handed out safety glasses to crowds at Therfield Heath in Royston.

With more than 90% of the Sun covered by the Moon, it was the most significant solar eclipse visible in the UK since 11 August 1999.

Royston mayor Elizabeth Freeman, who also saw the 1999 eclipse, said: "This is marvellous, to see so many people up here... It's just lovely to see so many people enjoying themselves."

• Once-in-a-generation solar eclipse wows millions in UK and Europe

Experts had urged eclipse watchers not to look directly at the Sun, warning that even brief exposure could cause lasting damage.

Specialist glasses had sold out at many retailers, including those recommended by UK health officials, with Royal Museums Greenwich citing an "unprecedented volume" of demand.

George Turrell, 20, from Letchworth, managed to find a pair and was on the heath with his partner Ebrielle Strickland, also 20, from Baldock, to see their first eclipse.

He described the eclipse as "rather interesting" but admitted there had been a "panic" to try and find a pair of safety glasses in time.

Those unable to find glasses used other methods, including colanders as pinhole projectors to cast multiple images of the eclipse.

Gerry Gani, from Kelshall, initially brought a colander to watch the rare solar event, but managed to find safety glasses before the eclipse began.

She said "We're not going to be here for the next one, 2099, sorry guys.

"The atmosphere is incredible... It really brings out the best in people."

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