LOCAL schoolchildren have been shown how to become high-flyers at the launch of the Blackpool Circus School.

Forty pupils from Year 6 at Devonshire Junior School were invited to attend the launch at Bispham High School on Monday (January 27).

And took part in a 90-minute workshop with international circus artistes Yuri and Tonya Gridneff, Allen McPherson and flying trapeze artiste Roger Mireles watched by the Mayor and Mayoress of Blackpool, Councillors Ivan and Sylvia Taylor.

The circus school has been set up with help from Bispham High School Arts College and Blackpool Youth Service. It aims to teach youngsters of all ages the tricks of the trade through a series of workshops.

Deputy Head Teacher of the Arts College said: "We are now seeing The Arts Council take an increased interest in the artforms of circus, street arts and carnival.

"Circus is a supremely physical and visual artform in its own right, not as an addition to theatre or people making it one of the most accessible artforms that exists today.

"As a performing arts college we recognise the contribution that circus can make to education, entertainment, employment and the cultural life within Blackpool."

And the director of Blackpool Circus School, Allen McPherson said: "There is a wealth of talent in Blackpool eager to pass on the traditional circus skills to youngsters."

Picture by Glen Gater