Fleetwood sisters thrilling audiences with their amazing skills as Circus Mondao hits town

The popular circus has set up the Big Top at the Norcross Lane car boot field in Thornton and will be there until September 4.

Suzy, 21, was the first sister to join the circus, just over four years ago – and her routine in the ring is literally hair-raising.

After a spell as an acrobat with Troupe Agadir, of Morocco, she taught teaching herself a new routine, a dramatic hair-hanging act in which she is lifted far above the audience by her hair.

Toni, 24, joined last year and her routine is equally arresting, as she plays with fire and even eats the flames.

Like her sister, she began her circus career helping out with other acts, in her case as a dancer, before learning her own routine.

The pair say they both love the thrill of performing every night.

Suzy said: “It’s great to have Toni in the show, we’re really close.

“People ask me if it hurts my hair when I hang up so high and spin around.

"But I’m used to it now and it actually doesn’t hurt at all.

"It did hurt my neck and shoulders more but I have strengthened my muscles to be able to do it.

"Being in the circus is hard work because there is so much to do each day – but you just can’t beat the thrill of performing.”

Toni agrees, having spent time as a dancer and performer elsewhere before joining her sister in Circus Mondao last year.

Of her daring fire routine, she says: “You have to know what you’re doing, there is always an element of risk like all circus acts, and that’s what makes it so exciting.

"I get nervous but you can’t beat the excitement and hope to be in the circus for a few years yet.”

Circus Mondao, headed by ring mistress Petra Jackson, has a completely new show this year, featuring hilarious Brazilian clown Ruanito and international artistes performing in the Wheel of Death, wire walking, juggling, horse riding, magic and illusion and much more

For details on tickets and show times visit the circus’ Facebook site.