BILLY Smart's legendary travelling circus is on its way to Worcestershire.

The circus, which first toured in the 1940s, sets up camp at the Three Counties Showground in Malvern on Tuesday, March 13, and promises to amaze the audiences, young and old, with an outstanding array of stars.

Featuring acts such as an award-winning French aerial acrobat and a troupe of acrobats from Kazakhstan, it is a truly multi-cultural circus which does not feature any animals.

One of the 30 artists is Ross Presto, who has been performing magic since he was six years old. Presto joined Billy Smart's when he was 17 and now, aged 23, he says it is "absolute honour" to be travelling with them.

"It is just like a travelling village. There are about 90 people on tour with us, 30 are artists and the rest range from electricians, mechanics and caterers to box office staff and drivers."

Mexican clown Chico Rico describes the circus as like a "small village". He said: "This is my first year and it's been excellent."

Also experiencing his first full season is American Anton von Ostendorp. Leader of the Flying Bull Dancers trapeze act, he also compares the circus to a mini town. He said: "The children who grow up here speak five or six different languages. It's amazing."

Billy Smart's began in 1946 and became extremely popular in post-war Britain. Ten years after it was founded, Billy Smart appeared on television programme This Is Your Life. Smart lived the circus life to the full and was known for his big cigar, Stetson hat and ebullient personality.

He died in showman's style in 1966, having just led a parade through the streets of Ipswich.

The circus stopped touring in 1971 but reformed 30 years later with a more modern and sophisticated approach.

It has since been named the Best Circus in Britain by the Circus Friends' Association.

For more information visit www.billy-smarts-circus.co.uk For tickets call the box office on 0870 4441505.