CROWDS of youngsters howled with laughter yesterday as circus clowns invaded a North-East town.

Juggling, stilt-walking, comical speeches and musical clowning were all part of the act when The Sandow Clowns visited Loftus Town Hall, in east Cleveland.

Complete with red noses and big feet, Tomato and his clowning pals entertained guests at the circus party.

Part of the Slapstick Theatre Company, the show tours the country to raise funds for charity Cancer and Leukaemia in Childhood (CLIC). Last year, they raised more than £13,000 for the charity.