Every child dreams of running away to join the circus.

There is a glamour and excitement to the acrobatic feats, taming of wild animals and general clowning around.

Now, Richmond Theatre has organised a Big Top activities event, where the whole family can experience circus life.

The free workshop takes place on Tuesday, August 9 from 11am to 3pm.

It'll be on Little Green, opposite the theatre.

Intended to promote the circus-themed Christmas pantomime, Goldilocks and the Three Bears, it will be a ‘have-a-go’ opportunity to learn skills such as stilt-walking, juggling, plate-spinning and the diablo.

The pantomime will star former Blue Peter presenter and Countryfile regular Matt Baker, who is a circus skill aficionado himself.

It will have all the fun of the fair, incorporating circus elements without straying too far from the traditional Christmas show narrative.

Next week's event, which promises some surprises that aren’t on the bill, is an ideal summer holiday activity to get the kids out of the house - and it's free.