APPRENTICE juggler Paul Barberel is ready to pack his bags and head off to circus school after netting a £1,000 grant.

The talented teenager's juggling skills thrilled audiences so much in Blackpool last year that bosses were quick to ask him back.

But the level-headed lad of Plungington, Preston, knew what he had to do - and that was further education. But instead of checking out what GNVQs and A-levels were on offer, Paul set his sights on circus school.

And thanks to the Foundation for Sports and Arts grant, Paul, 16, will go to the capital of comic capers - Rochdale - later on this year to receive professional tuition on how to be the best juggler in the business.

The grant was secured thanks to references from big top chums at Blackpool Tower Circus, where he recently performed.

His delighted mum June said: "The grant is a wonderful boost for Paul, who has worked so hard at his juggling over the last 12 months.

"The extra tuition, which could last as long as six months, will be fantastic as it will take his talents to an extra level, meaning he may be able to achieve his dream of working abroad.

I am so proud of him."

The junior juggler has already wooed audiences at Blackpool Pleasure Beach's International Carnival Circus.

But that isn't his only success. Paul said: "I went to Circus Star in Chorley to audition last year and they asked me to perform at the next show, which was just an hour later. It was great."

Following an appeal in the Citizen last year, Paul has now found himself a performing partner. Alexa Randell, 15, of Walton-le-Dale is now helping him make his show extra special with spectacular routines.

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