UNCLE Sam's American Circus opened to an ecstatic audience last night after a move as complex as any juggling act.

Ringmaster Gavin Brand had to co-ordinate the arrival of 15 trucks, 34 caravans and put up the tallest tent in the UK with the help of 20 people.

The circus will be performing for audiences twice daily at The Sands, in Durham City, until Sunday.

The circus does not use animals in its shows. Instead, it boasts an impressive lineup of skills.

This year's version of the circus features some new acts, many of which have never been seen before.

The two-hour show includes sword displays, cheerleaders and a variety of juggling acts, in addition to performances based on popular films, such as Ghostbusters and Toy Story.

Other acts include musical clowns, a flying hula hoop performance and can-can dancers.

However, the highlight of the show will be the globe of death, in which motorcycles reach speeds of 60mph inside a 12ft steel mesh sphere.

The colourful finale involves a seven-foot Uncle Sam.

Tickets range from £12 to £22. The booking office is open daily on site, from 9.30am to 8pm.