THE excitement of the Big Top came to Shipston this week, but with younger stars and no animals.

Children in the town have had the chance to pick up some of the amazing skills of the traditional circus performers - spinning plates, juggling, unicycle riding and using a diablo - in a series of workshop sessions.

Performers from the Shooting Stars Circus have been leading the sessions at the Townsend Hall in Sheep Street, which are part of Stratford District Council's summer artsmix scheme of activities for children.

The fun was open to children aged eight and over and comes to an end tomorrow (Friday) with a circus show when the children can showcase their new skills.