The gala premiere of this year’s summmer circus was a triple celebration.

As well as lifting the lid on this year’s stellar line-up there was a surprise for circus impresario Peter Jay.

To mark the landmark Hippodrome Circus’s 115th year and the 250th anniversary of the circus art form he was presented with an illuminated certificate.

Handing over the accolade was town mayor Mary Coleman who was one of many VIP guests on Saturday.

Mr Jay said the 2018 was “a smash hit.”

Receiving the certificate he said: “I was absolutely delighted to receive this which will have a special place in the Hippodrome’s history.

“I would like to thank all the fabulous international artistes, our dancers and all our staff and Ben, Estelle Jack and Christine for all their hard work in creating this amazing show.

“Saturday was a night to remember.”

One of the hits of the show were Dupla Mao na Roda from Brazil, whose extraordinary powers had the audience cheering. Mr Jay added: “You have to see it to believe it, an inspirational act.”

According to the Hippodrome the Summer Spectacular is now established as the biggest and most visited summer show in the UK.

Artistes come from all over the world including the sensational flying trapeze from Australia and Japan, what is billed as “the world’s greatest juggler” Mexican Roberto Carlos, semi-finalist in Britain’s Got Talent Sascha Williams, daring aerial straps from Canadian Eric McGill, sensational hand balancers from Brazil and a new high bar troupe from Ukraine.

The show is hosted by Jack Jay and comedian Johnny Mac. Johnny said: “This summer is going to feel like one big party, we always have so much fun with the audiences, but this will be on another level. If you’ve been too hot recently, don’t worry I’ve got some buckets of water that will soon cool you down!”

The show continues until September 16 with performances every day at 2.30pm and 7.30pm, Sundays 2.30pm and 6.30pm and Fridays 7.30pm only.

Tickets from £11 (child) to £23 (adult).

Book via the box office O1493 844172 or online at www.hippodromecircus.co.uk