FEATS of daring and expertise by Shaolin Wu-Shu Warriors, acrobats and dancers are being performed in Weymouth.

The Chinese State Circus has pitched its big top at Lodmoor Country Park and, until Sunday, the troupe will be wowing crowds with stunts that have taken years of training to perfect.

Circus spokesman Lori Zloteanu said: “All of the artists started training at three or four years old and they train every single day for about three hours.

“We come to Weymouth every two or three years but it’s a totally new production.

“This is the first time it’s been seen in this town.”

Five members of Shaolin monastery from the Ji Lin province of China will be putting their martial arts expertise to the test.

Two contortionist women from the Tai An province will use their gymnastic training to bend and balance on top of each other while supporting a crystal ornament in the air.

Among the spectacles taking place are the traditional Chinese Lion Dance and a performance by a Monkey King character, swinging poles, tricks with diabolos and plate spinning – accompanied by balancing acts.

Lori, who worked as a dancer with the circus before taking over the marketing role, added: “The Shaolin monks live in temples and for them this is a chance to experience travelling and to see if they like this kind of life – making money – or to stay as proper monks.

“Most of the Shaolin do go back to be proper monks but the circus is a good experience for them.

“The acrobats usually become teachers when they retire and teach others their skills.

“They have quite a full life when you think about it.”