The world-famous circus is touring the UK for the first time ever, with a show encompassing world class acrobatics, gymnasts and martial arts.

Martial arts warriors from the Shaolin Temple and The Tai An Acrobatic Troupe from the foot of Mount Tai - one of China's sacred mountains and home to some of the countries greatest poets, artists, scholars and warriors for over 2,000 years - will be taking centre stage when the circus comes to Glyne Gap Field in Bexhill Road between July 30 and August 4.

On display will be some of the world's greatest acrobats and a host of undisputed masters of martial arts as well as some potential Olympic gymnastic medallists of the future.

The show is narrated by one of the most famous characters from Chinese folklore - The Monkey King - and the performance also include original music composed especially for the circus.

There will be back-flipping galore, gymnasts spiralling through rotating hoops and a dizzying succession of an array of beautiful plate spinning oriental divas.

Further spice comes from candelabra balancing knotted contortionists, Chinese pole balancing and a lusciously set and costumed performance of the Lion Dance.

Then to top it all the deadly grace of martial arts from the Shaolin school of Kung Fu, Wu Shu and Qigong.

Performances take place at 7.45pm on Thursday July 30, 3pm and 7.45pm on the Friday, Saturday and Monday and 2pm and 5pm on the Sunday and Tuesday.

For tickets ring Ticketmaster on 0844 576 5506 or visit www.thechinesestatecircus.eu.