The circus has returned to Hitchin's Butts Close!

Seats are limited for socially distancing but the popular Circus Wonderland is back in our town until Sunday.

With acrobats, jugglers and clowns, their new show offers fun for all the family.

The circus has appeared at Butts Close for the previous five years, and despite the Covid crisis will make it six in a row.

Like all of us, the circus troupe, led by Kriss Freear and Paul Carpenter - who appear as clowns Kakehole and Popol - have had a lot to frown about during the pandemic.

But they are delighted that they can once again 'clown around' in Hitchin this week.

Paul aka Popol, told Hitchin Nub News: "We will only have half the usual number of seats to allow for social distancing, a one way system in the tent and there will be sanitisation points and increased cleaning measures introduced.

"We have fought so hard to reopen, but now the safety of our audience and performers is our main priority.

"We are very grateful to North Hertfordshire District Council for working closely with us to find a way for our event to go ahead as safely as possible."

The circus had aimed to reopen this summer, alongside pubs and restaurants, but their hopes were dashed when live performances were still forbidden.

Frustrated, Circus Wonderland joined protests in Westminster, delivering a letter to Boris Johnson, letting him know that many circuses faced the prospect of shutting for good because of restrictions.

Thankfully, commonsense prevailed and outdoor performances were eventually given the green light from the government - even if there will be many changes evident inside a socially distanced Big Top in Hitchin.

However, despite the challenges faced in putting on a show within the safety recommendations, everyone at the circus remains optimistic about their return to our town.

"We understand that some people may have questions or concerns about the safety implications of visiting the circus," said Paul, adding: "But we also believe that the public have been starved of entertainment this year and we are ready to put the smiles back on their faces."

Paul adds that the rule of six means that no more than six people can sit together and the circus creates a space around each 'bubble', with their last show ending at 930pm.

The show is appearing at Butts Close, Fishponds Road from this Thursday, October 15, until Sunday, October 18.

Tickets from £7.

For show times and further information about the show visit www.circuswonderland.co.uk or contact their