Roll up, roll up for Midsummer Madness

There’s no need to run away to join the circus in north Manchester this summer thanks to the Blackley Midsummer Madness event on Saturday 26 June.

Not only will there be some spectacular big top-style acts on show but anyone who goes along to the free event  between 1pm and 5pm in Plant Hill Park can also try their hand at mastering circus skills.

There will be professional shows from Aviatricks, performing spectacular partner aerobatics, outdoor aerial circus including trapeze, stiltwalking and fire juggling plus comedy circus shows from Circus Sensible in a baby big top holding audiences of up to 200.

Workshops in juggling, stilt walking, plate spinning, Chinese Diablo, Chinese ribbons and balancing will give all-comers the chance to learn impressive new talents.

And if that's enough to work up an appetite, there's even a free 'first come first served' clown barbecue as well as face painting and balloon modelling.

But even if the circus isn't your thing, there is lots more on offer.

Other highlights include a soccer skills session led by Manchester City FC in the Community and street dance routines. There's also an invitation to people to come along and display their talents on an open mic stage.

This annual event is supported by the City Council in partnership with the Friends of Plant Hill Park.

Councillor Mike Amesbury,  Executive Member for Culture and Leisure, said: "Thousands  flocked to Plant Hill Park for last year's Wild West-themed event and I'm sure this year's event will prove equally popular.

"Whether it's being wowed by the professionals, being inspired to have a go yourself or enjoying some of the other attractions on offer it promises to be a memorable day."