THE circus is arriving in Salisbury with high-flying acrobats, jugglers and clowns providing entertainment for all ages.

Circus Wonderland is a new show celebrating the 250th anniversary of the birth of circus in Great Britain.

Roller skaters, bungee jumpers and aerialists are joined by award-winning clowns Kakehole and Mr Popol, who will be causing chaos with their music, magic and mayhem.

This year is an important milestone in the history of the modern circus, which was founded by trick rider Phillip Astley in London in 1768.

On a piece of waste ground near Westminster Bridge, Astley roped off a circle to perform his equestrian skills, and also added clowns, acrobats and strongmen in between the horse displays.

Paul Carpenter, who appears as clown Mr Popol, believes that the 250th anniversary is a big boost for the UK circus industry.

“Circus is our most exciting form of live entertainment,” he said. “We should be very proud that the worldwide phenomenon of the circus started in England, one of our greatest inventions.”

Circus Wonderland is appearing at Salisbury Rugby Club from Wednesday (October 31) until Sunday, November 4.

Shows are Wednesday and Thursday at 3pm and 7pm, Friday and Saturday at 12pm and 3pm, and Sunday at 1pm.

For more information go to circuswonderland.com or contact the box office on 07531 612240.