The Bath Grounds is to play host to Circus Montini, which is set to come to Ashby in mid-September.

Monday's meeting of Ashby de la Zouch Town Council's Events and Tourism Committee approved a request from Tony Hopkins, entertainments Ltd for the 250-seater show to be staged in the town.

A letter to the town council says the circus is 'all-human' and councillors were assured there would be 'no lions or tigers' as part of the performance.

The letter, from earlier this month, adds: "The area of land we need is approximately half the size of a football pitch, this would accommodate everything.

"The show is set to fit on village greens and like, so we don't need a lot of space.

"We are self-sufficient, however, and access to a water point or hydrant is always a bonus, but not essential."

Circus Montini's website gives more details of the show but has yet to list a date for its planned visit to Ashby.

The site says it is: "A fast-paced production packed full of comedy, juggling, balancing, acrobatics, stunts and more!

"Circus Montini is a new concept in modern circus. Still, it owes much to the early days of this unique form of family entertainment which was the toast of the town wherever it went and attracted the lords and ladies of the day as well as the rest of the population.

"Everyone wanted to see the circus.

"Most of today's circuses – large and small – restrict their tours to cities and major towns, a far cry from those first touring shows which were also taken to village greens and the recreation grounds of the small towns off the beaten track.

"Circus Montini is following in the wheel tracks of those great circuses of the past and is returning to the ethos of taking a family show to the people, creating a memorable experience on their doorstep. 

"No need to drive miles and endure the road works and fuel costs of motoring – Circus Montini is coming to you!

"A warm welcome awaits in our state-of-the-art theatre-style big-top!

"Circus Montini has successfully blended ancient and modern to create a show that will live in the memory for a very long time.

"Don't miss our thrilling acrobatic spectacular!"