RAMSBOTTOM'S resident clown Bippo will be travelling to the Russian town of Beslan to bring a smile to the faces of children coming to terms with a terrorist attack on their school.

The small town is still suffering the effects of the events of last September, when Chechen Separatists took more than 1,000 adults and children hostage in a school. More than 300 were killed during the siege.

Fifteen-year-old Gareth Ellis will be taking his alter-ego to the town to visit the children.

His mum Kath Ellis said: "Gareth is going with the charity Laughtercare, set up by Zippo's circus, of which he is a member of. This is another side of Gareth's work and an extremely rewarding part. He is hoping to take with him unwanted Christmas presents such as games and toys for the children."

This is the second time Gareth has been involved in charity work in Russia. A few years ago, as Bippo, he entertained orphans in city orphanages.

"The children in Beslan are still suffering mentally and the charity has been approached to go out there to help them. They will be performing for them, showing them circus tricks to bring a smile to their faces," said Mrs Ellis.

Gareth, who is studying for his GCSEs at Woodhey High School, will spend a week in Russia later this month. But before that he will be entertaining underprivileged children in London in a charity event.

Anyone who can donate toys or games should email bippo@tinyonline.co.uk