ARCHAEOLOGISTS have admitted that what was thought to be a newly-identified ancient stone circle in the parish of Leochel-Cushnie, Aberdeenshire, is in fact a replica that is just a couple of decades old.

The site was reported by the current owner of the farm on which it is located. Some unusual features were noted during its recording, including its small diameter, proportionately small stones and lack of an obvious associated cairn or kerb stones, but as there is a huge amount of variation between genuine 'Recumbent Stone Circles', researchers did not immediately see these differences as a major cause to doubt the new circle's authenticity.

However, ongoing analysis of the Leochel-Cushnie site was cut short when a former owner of the farm contacted the investigating team to say that they had put up the stones in the mid-1990s.

Aberdeenshire council's historic environment record assistant, Neil Ackerman, commented: “It is obviously disappointing to learn of this development, but it also adds an interesting element to its story.

“That it so closely copies a regional monument type shows the local knowledge, appreciation and engagement with the archaeology of the region by the local community.

“I hope the stones continue to be used and enjoyed – while not ancient it is still in a fantastic location and makes for a great feature in the landscape."

Genuine Recumbent Stone Circles were constructed around 3,500 and 4,500 years ago and are unique to the north east of Scotland. To find out more about Stone Circles in Aberdeenshire, visit: http://bit.ly/RStoneCircles