There was plenty of clowning around at Pakefield's Seagull Theatre as 50 children took part in a circus skills workshop.

Run by the Foolhardy Circus, who have spent more than 20 years teaching and performing, the event saw the children use equipment including the Diablo, juggling balls, unicycles and stilts.

Parents and carers also tried their hand at a variety of circus skills and techniques, which included plate spinning and balance poles.

The session, which took place last Tuesday, February 16, started with the professionals providing a demonstration to the children.

It was then time for visitors to give it a try – many of whom were taking part for the first time.

Cosmo Hardy runs the Foolhardy Circus, who will also be performing all summer at Wroxham Barns.

'This is a chance for the kids to have a go at all the different circus skills,' he said.

'Over a period of about an hour, they will settle into something they particularly like, and then you can get them to progress.

'It's all about little steps, and each step is a sense of achievement for them – it is a fun way to accomplish something.'

Karen Read, theatre manager, said: 'We wanted people to come and see that this community theatre is up and running and we have lots going on.

'I love it when the building is full of children and quite a few people have said they have never been here before which is nice – they might take a programme when they leave and we will hopefully see them again.'

After the session, the Foolhardy Circus, consisting of Cosmo, Tom Fool and Lucas Hardy, put on a performance at the theatre entitled Where Have All The Fleas Gone?

? Are you hosting a community event in Lowestoft? Email: joe.randlesome@archant.co.uk