PAGANS criticised the neo-Nazis holding rituals at National Trust sites.

Pagan Federation president Robin Taylor and Asatru UK chair Rich Blackett issued a joint statement after the Daily Telegraph uncovered right-wing groups gathering at Avebury stones and carving swastikas into trees at Wayland's Smithy in Uffington.

They wrote: "Asatru UK is categorically opposed to fascist movements, or any movements, using the symbols of our faith for hate.

"Our group was founded on principles of inclusion and has worked for years to both expose the misuse of our faith and to demonstrate by our actions that Heathenry is a faith for all.

"Asatru UK is proudto take a stand against hate in any form.

Thousands of modern heathens of all ethnic backgrounds are disgusted at the misuse of our gods and historical sites."