MASTERING the skills of the circus proved child's play for the primary school youngsters attending a Hollins playscheme.

More than 20 children joined Childsplay Holiday Playscheme, based at Hollins Community Centre, for a week of fun activities, including glass painting, arts and craft and sports.

On Friday they were joined by children's charity Grumpy, the Greater Manchester Play Resource Unit, to practise the basic skills of the circus including juggling, stilt walking and plate spinning, and to celebrate the fact the playscheme is now officially up and running every school holiday after two trial runs.

Katrina Baker, community development worker, said: "The children had a good time and learning the circus skills was definitely their favourite day. They really enjoyed it. The playscheme allows them to develop creative play opportunities."