In pictures: Solstice sunrise

News imageJilla EllesmereJilla
News imageNeville Street People at Mitchell's Fold in ShropshireNeville Street

Ellesmere provided the setting of this solstice sunrise by Jilla
People gathered at Mitchell's Fold stone circle in Shropshire on Wednesday morning

People have welcomed in the winter solstice across the West Midlands.

The 21 December marks the longest night of the year, and fewest daytime hours.

It rose at 08:16 GMT and is due to set at 15:55, the Met office said.

On the winter solstice the northern hemisphere is at its maximum tilt away from the Sun.

News imageHarry the Springer WigmoreHarry the Springer
There was a great view of the landscape surrounding Wigmore
News imageKarenJ Kings NortonKarenJ
Cloud cover masked the early morning sun in Kings Norton
News imageWeather Watcher Will New BiltonWeather Watcher Will
The sun slowly emerged in New Bilton, near Rugby
News imageDaisy Chayne Rainbow over Eaton BishopDaisy Chayne
A strong rainbow arced over Eaton Bishop on Wednesday morning