QUARRY bosses, campaigners and archaeologists yesterday spoke of their desire to see Thornborough Henges preserved.

As the dust settles on a decision by councillors to reject Tarmac's extension to Nosterfield Quarry, near Masham, North Yorkshire, both sides have begun to take stock.

The application has put the 5,000-year-old earth monuments in the national spotlight.

And while the two sides still vehemently disagree on the historical value of the extension site, neither party questions the importance of the three circular henges.

A plan for the North Yorkshire henges' future as a protected site and tourist attraction is being put in a conservation plan.

The plan is being drawn up by English Heritage, the county council and Tarmac.

Tarmac estates manager Bob Nicholson yesterday reiterated that the henges never had anything to fear from the Ladybridge Farm application.

He said deliberately misleading images and distorted messages have enabled the objectors to gather support from across the globe.

He said: "Our application site -some half a mile away from the nearest henge -never has and never will threaten the ancient monument. We have also stated from the outset that we are committed to the protection of the henges.

"We see no reason why heritage-type tourism cannot co-exist with the operation of a quarry whose management has an exemplary record for restoration and creation of facilities such as paths, a visitors centre and viewing areas for birdwatchers that enable local people and visitors to enjoy the area more fully."

English Heritage also pled-ged to do its best for the henges.

A spokesman said last night: "We will continue to work with the county council, local landowners, including Tarmac, and other parties to further the positive management of the Thornborough landscape."

Campaigners from Timewatch and Friends of Thornborough believe the plan should cover more than just around the henges, possibly up to five square miles.

Friends of Thornborough spokesman Dick Lonsdale said: "The conservation plan is good, but could be better."

Mr Lonsdale said the henges should become an educational resource for schools and visiting archaeologists.

Group member Clare Lindley said: "The henges can give you a sense of peace and place. These things are here for us to learn from. Just because we do not have stone like Stonehenge does not mean it is not important."