A group of circus performers and teachers went to Selsey Common on Saturday night to celebrate the summer solstice by performing a number of tricks.

The Stroud School of Larks Circus, who have been spending lockdown together, celebrated the longest day of the year by showcasing their skills on the common.

Members of the group include Claudia Weston, her daughters Esmee, Maya, and brother and sister Edwin and Sophie Forster, and Miranda Cawkwell.

The School of Larks normally provides both structured classes and training in circus skills for all ages in Stroud, Nailsworth, the Cotswold School on Bourton-on-the-Water, Playbox Theatre and the surrounding areas.

The members said: "We specialise in aerial arts but also offer other circus skills such as tightrope walking, staffs, unicycling, walking globe and more.

"We are very interested in the educational and creative possibilities of aerial and other circus disciplines and the benefits they provide for self-esteem, coordination, autonomy, strength, flexibility and self-control.

"The variety of skills in circus allows each individual the opportunity to find their interests and their passions. Aerial and other circus skills provide a combination of sport and art so may be considered an important educational tool.

"Since lockdown, we have been offering a variety of courses online in hand and headstanding, juggling, backbending, splits, hula-hooping, conditioning and more."

All photos by Simon Pizzey.

Visit his website here: simonpizzey.com