Circuses 'under threat from new licence rules'

Tough new regulations are said to be threatening the livelihood of circuses.

From April next year revised licensing laws will force all circuses to apply for an entertainment permit for every stop on their tours, each costing up to £500.

Martin Burton, who owns Zippo's Circus, said: "This will close us down, there's no doubt. I think the majority will be out of business by May or June next year."

His circus travels to 35 places a year and will have to pay £17,500. The Licensing Act 2003 was initially designed to reform rules on pub hours and regulations for theatres and pop groups.