FOR an evening of breathtaking stunts, juggling dexterity and exhausting acrobatics, there can be no better place than at ringside of the circus.

From the opening tumblers, we knew we were in for some exciting entertainment, and were soon treated to a juggling act using ropes, which were repeatedly thrown very high into the air, caught and spun around, while the acrobats performed somersaults.

There were superb balancing acts, juggling with hats, and even with what looked like crock patio planters.

One nail-biting feat ended with girls on the top seven of 10 chairs balanced precariously on a table, doing handstands, and a trapeze routine gave a new meaning to bungee, as four men swung round the trapeze on giant rubber bands.

You could not have a Chinese festivity without the dragons and these had such lovely, friendly faces.

The show ended with the gold-medal winning gymnasts who hold the world record for the most people on a bicycle - 12 on this occasion!

A great family show for young and old alike.

VJS