CLIFFORD the chesty camel has got the hump - which is why circus workers brought in a faith healer to cure their ailing animal.

International healer John Mayo yesterday travelled up from Gloucestshire to hold a healing session with the Bactrian camel during her stay at Riverside Park in Chester-le-Street.

"This certainly isn't a publicity stunt as far as I'm concerned," said Mr Mayo as he lay hands on the 14-year-old camel.

"This is something I take very seriously, and I might have to visit Clifford again.

"He is the most exotic animal I've done, I suppose, but I have to say he's behaving very well. But then it usually is the human beings you have to watch out for!"

Clifford's owner, and proprietor of the Great British Circus, Martin Lacey watched anxiously as the camel, which is a firm favourite with children across the country, patiently waited for Mr Mayo to put his gift to full use.

"The vets had said there's not a lot else they can do, so I thought I would give John a call to try and improve his quality of life.

"He's not badly ill or anything, but you can guarantee that if there's a cold going round or anything Clifford will get it. Hopefully this will sort it out."

Meanwhile, Clifford will continue to perform, poor chest or otherwise, like the trooper he undoubtedly is, over the next week and a half while the circus is in town.