A 41-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder following the discovery of a body at a summer solstice gathering in Derbyshire has been released on bail. Police are continuing their investigation into the death of 26-year-old Isaac Clare-Watts, who was found deceased at the Nine Ladies Stone Circle in Stanton Lees.
Officers were called to the ancient monument on Monday afternoon after reports of a man's body being found. Isaac, from Nottingham, was pronounced dead at the scene. His mother, Christy Clare, has paid tribute to her son, describing him as "Isaac the Wonder Boy" and urging the public to come forward with information.
Derbyshire Police launched a murder investigation and are appealing for anyone who attended the weekend gathering, which attracted hundreds of people, to contact them. Detective Inspector Tony Owen stated that a young man's life was taken in a "brutal way" and stressed the importance of gathering a clear picture of the circumstances surrounding his death.
Isaac Clare-Watts worked as a joiner and was known for his passion for Muay Thai and music. Colleagues described him as a skilled tradesman and a popular member of their team. He had recently returned from travelling and had plans to continue exploring the world.
The Nine Ladies Stone Circle, a Bronze Age monument, has become a site for summer solstice gatherings. However, local residents have noted a shift in recent years, with events becoming larger parties and raves, sometimes overshadowing the traditional significance of the solstice. Police have received hundreds of photos, videos, and messages from the public as they piece together the events of the weekend, and they continue to appeal for anyone who has not yet come forward to do so.