CHILDREN near Winchester have been preparing for a special show by dressing up in clown costumes and honing their juggling skills.

Pupils at Four Marks School, near Alresford, will take part in circus workshops on Friday (April 25) to prepare for Cirque Normandie’s arrival on Saturday (April 26).

The school is currently fundraising to have works done to the outdoor play areas and children have been busy learning the tricks of the circus trade to raise as much as they can.

Recent cuts in funding have meant the school’s current budget only allows for ongoing maintenance and not for further development.

The shows, which will be open to the general public, will be held at 11am and 3pm on the school grounds. Other entertainment will include face painting and tattoos, tombolas, a Pimms tent and other refreshments.

Anyone wishing to support the fundraiser and enjoy the show can buy tickets online at friendsoffourmarks.wix.com/cirque-normandie.

They can also be bought in person at the Alton Herald office and at Christine’s Arts and Crafts, both located in Market Square, Alton.

Tickets cost £10 each and there is a 10 per cent discount for families of four or more (maximum of two adults) but this is only available for tickets bought online.

Gates open at 10am and close at 5.30pm on show day.