CIRCUS performers, musicians, and poets were among the visitors to Shaftesbury at the weekend for the Gold Hill Fair.

Belly dancing, highland flings and the traditional steps of morris dancers also featured among the attractions of the two-day event.

Shaftesbury's Rotary Club put on the fair to raise money for the town's swimming pool and the Help for Heroes charity.

Children from local schools opened the fair at midday on Saturday, parading along the High Street and down Gold Hill with giant flags and papier-mâché creations.

Youngsters finished their colourful walk at a children's party, where a free disco and line dance gave little ones a chance to burn off energy.

Plate spinning, juggling, and unicycling were some of the skills that could be learned at a family workshop held by performers from Circus Berzercus in the Abbey Gardens.

Rotarian Trish Lever said: "It's been such a wonderful weekend. The sun has been shining on the people of Shaftesbury but we're a hardy lot here and would have braved the rain anyway.

"We've had everything going on here this weekend and it's been absolutely fantastic. A big thank you to everyone who has been involved and made it such a fabulous community event."

  • See Monday's Daily Echo for pictures