THE astonishing Circus Fantasia returns to Clacton Pier this weekend with a thrilling new show for their second major run of the season.

They are staging Clacton Pier Circus in the Jolly Roger before returning for the opening of the new development on Saturday, July 21 and then perform throughout the summer holidays.

There are two shows a day – at 2pm and 4.15pm – with a dazzling array of international talent from all corners of the globe.

Dancing water fountains are also being added to the circus, which does not use any animals.

Spain’s Los Remanche clowns have been signed up this year, along with Angel Bojilov – a unique slack wire presentation. Jidimis, from the Netherlands, will provide an amazing act of magic and illusion.

Miss Anya, from the Ukraine, is on the aerial silks and hula hoop acrobat Miss Ellen is appearing from the UK. There will also be spinning plates with a twist and a fantastic football juggler from Mexico.

Circus boss Matthew Wingate said the team is looking forward to another great summer at the pier.

“We had a great reception last year – and again at Whitsun – and people can look forward to an even better show this time around,” he said.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

Hearthrob Chico

Circus Fantasia’s dancing fountains feature more than 2,000 litres of coloured waters for the climax of the show, which is about 90 minutes including a ten-minute interval.

There is seating available for about 300 people. Tickets are £7 from the pier and online here

The venue has also announced a second X Factor celeb is appear at the official opening of the pier’s £4million redevelopment.

A little bit of Chico Time will be added to the ceremony on July 21 to go with Stevi Ritchie, who has already signed up to perform.

Chico appeared on X Factor in 2005 and went on to knock Madonna off the top spot in the charts with his debut hit Chico Time.

Pier spokesman Ewelina Majewska is hoping Chico and Stevi will perform together.

She said: “It should be really fun to have both of them down here with us for this special day and we are lining up a host of free entertainment, including fireworks in the evening.”