IN PICTURES: The wacky world of Showzam in Blackpool

The extravaganza of extraordinary talents kicked off Showzam 2016, Blackpool’s annual festival of circus and performance.

The event, which runs all week, aims to cement Blackpool’s title as ‘circus capital of Britain’.

Duncan Hodgson, part of the organising team, said: “It’s gone really, really well so far.

“We’ve had a lot of people through the Winter Gardens and in the streets.

“It’s unique and such high-quality that people will travel quite a distance to see what’s going on, and that’s great for Blackpool.

“Last year we got about a third visitors and two thirds of people from the local area, with an estimated boost for the economy of £2m.

“We’re aiming to reach that and more this year, as we’ve gone even bigger and better.

“It’s been hard work to organise, but totally worth it, it’s unique.”

One of the highlights of this year’s event was the performance Bivouac by Generik Vapeur, who took to the town centre streets on Saturday.

Blue-painted man wowed the crowds with their performance involving 102 oil drums, abseiling figures and fire-breathing mechanical dogs.

To find out what’s happening during the rest of the week, visit: http://www.showzam.co.uk/whatson/