Outside The Big Top

Children of all ages enjoyed the variety of Ridgway's Circus which had a season at the showgrounds. Plenty of animals and clowns, acrobatics and other acts made up an outing of wholesome family entertainment.

Grand-dad Stan Fawcett gives moral support to his grandson Gavin Walsh as he inspects the elephants.

The monkeys were a never failing source of amusement.

The large four-masted big top.

Mr C. Ridgway, circus proprietor, beside his monstrous caravan, his home on wheels. It is 41 feet long and 8' 11/2" wide.

Larry Ford with "Bonanza", the horse that did the adding-up trick.

Clowns "Willie" and "Charlie".

The young grizzly bear which is being trained for the circus. It is of the same species as Gentle Ben of TV fame.

The Flying Cordonas pose in their capes. From left: Charlie Ridgway and Peter and Chris Goodall

Whip act artists are Cary and Barbara Ridgway

Previous article Issue contents Next article

The Gisborne Photo News

No 199 : January 27, 1971

Outside The Big Top