‘Ancient’ Scottish stone circle is actually replica built in the 1990s

When a farmer stumbled across a mysterious stone circle, thrilled experts told the world’s media it was 4,500 years old. But now its real story has been revealed.

A stone circle said by experts to be 4500 years old was revealed to be a replica — built in the mid-1990s.

Thrilled archaeologists had hailed the discovery of the recumbent stone circle last November.

But only weeks later a local farmer got in touch to say he built the copycat model.

Neil Ackerman, 31, revealed the discovery of the stone circle in Leochel-Cushnie, in the Scottish county of Aberdeenshire, last month.

It got worldwide attention, was “officially recognised” and added to a recumbent stone circles’ database.

Mr Ackerman, Aberdeenshire council’s historic environment record assistant, joked: “If you’re having an awkward day at work at least you’re not the guy who identified a prehistoric stone circle that turns out to be 20 years old.”

Experts at Historic Environment Scotland were convinced it was authentic until the farmer got in touch.

The stone circle at Leochel-Cushnie was only built in the 1990s. Picture: PA

Mr Ackerman added: “It is disappointing but these types of monument are notoriously difficult to date.”

The discovery brought worldwide attention and was even picked up by media in the United States.

At the time of the find, Mr Ackerman gushed: “It is rare for these sites to go unidentified for so long, especially in such a good condition.”

And he remained upbeat amid the disappointment about the stone replica.

He added: “We always welcome reports of any new, modern reconstructions of ancient monuments, especially those built with the skill of this stone circle and that reference existing monument types.

“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.”

Historic Environment Scotland said: “It might be on the modern side but is a part of history nonetheless.”

This story originally appeared in The Sun and has been reproduced with permission.