SWEET-sounding choristers, hymn-singing folk, and youngsters excited by a trip to the 'big top' will be in unison as the circus is set to come to town in a favourite religious programme.

For BBC Television are to link up with hosts Bobby Roberts' Super Circus to record a free admission all-ticket special edition of 'Songs of Praise' at Haydock Park on Monday and Tuesday, November 17 and 18, from 7 to 10pm.

Dubbed 'Big Top Praise', it will be broadcast on BBC1 on Sunday, January 4, with the programme format a celebration of life and faith in the circus world embracing, among others, Christian clowns, acrobats. church-going jugglers and trapeze artists.

Popular presenter Pam Rhodes will be chatting to those who have a story of faith to share.

And the BBC have extended their traditional invitation to churches and choirs of every denomination in the area to become involved as they bid for a capacity congregation of 1,200, plus a special 'core choir' of 300 who will be given leading parts in the soprano, alto, tenor and bass ranges.

The prestigious Haydock Male Voice Choir have already pledged their support to the unique programme, and several other local choral societies are also expected to be represented at Haydock Park.

FURTHER information and free tickets can be obtained by telephoning 0161 244 3252. or by sending an SAE to 'Big Top Praise', Room 5012, New Broadcasting House, Oxford Road, Manchester M60 1SJ. Closing date for applications is Wednesday, November 12.

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