The internationally-acclaimed circus freak show put together by Area 51 was drafted at late notice as the green light for Camp Bestival came late in the day due to government concerns over the pandemic.

But the Area 51 troupe of entertainers pooled their talents and skills to entertain thousands who descended on 16th-century Lulworth Castle in Dorset as the event returned following the its cancellation the previous year due the global surge in coronavirus cases.

But the award-winning family-friendly festival was back firing on all cylinders with a stunning programme of entertainment for all ages and with a theme of movies. Area 51 acts were on hand to help legendary Madchester icon Bez kick off the fun on the opening day with a keep fit session on the main stage and also took part in various parades throughout the weekend.

But the main focus of the 51 involvement came with Igor Rasputin and his ever-evolving pop-up circus which this time round featured the always-brilliant Mighty Gareth, street entertainer-extraordinaire who wowed onlookers with his various routines including sword swallowing.

The caravan at Camp Bestival was age-appropriate for the event with some of the Area 51 acts being able to involve their own children in the shows.

Area 51 director Matt Page said: “It was great to be back after a year or more of not being able to do much and we were very pleased that everything went so well.”

GALLERY