Stunning photos taken this morning capture the Winter solstice sunrise rising at the UK's most easterly point at Ness Point in Lowestoft.

The Winter solstice occurs each year, usually around December 20/21 as the Earth's poles reach its maximum tilt away from the sun.

Eastern Daily Press: People gathered at Ness Point to watch the sunrise.People gathered at Ness Point to watch the sunrise. (Image: Richard Girling)

Astronomically it marks the beginning of lengthening days and shortening nights.

Ness Point, the UK's most easterly point, was the first place to see the sunrise in the country this morning at 08.01am.

Eastern Daily Press: The sun could be seen rising at Ness Point at 08.01am.The sun could be seen rising at Ness Point at 08.01am. (Image: Richard Girling)

It will be the first to also see the sunset at 3.41pm.

Richard Girling, who lives near to Ness Point in Lowestoft captured the moment this morning.

Eastern Daily Press: People travel from far and wide to see the Winter solstice sunrise in Lowestoft.People travel from far and wide to see the Winter solstice sunrise in Lowestoft. (Image: Richard Girling)

He said: "It has become a bit of a tradition for myself, my wife and a friend to run down to Ness Point for the winter and summer solstices.

"Of course the summer solstice means a much earlier start but it was great to witness it rising just below the clouds."

Eastern Daily Press: The moment the sun rose above the sea.The moment the sun rose above the sea. (Image: Richard Girling)

Eastern Daily Press: The sunrise rises above the clouds.The sunrise rises above the clouds. (Image: Richard Girling)