BUSINESSES are expected to get a boost as the circus comes to town in Eastleigh.

This Friday, Happy's Circus will be launching it's "Spirit of Christmas" show at Leigh Road Recreation Ground.

Nearby businesses are being invited to attend the opening night which will be followed by a reception and a chance to meet some of the performers.

The circus hopes to bring crowds into the town centre and wants to help the wider business community as people head to the high street for the festive season.

The Mayor, Councillor Cynthia Garton, will attend the first of many festive shows put on by the circus in the heated Big Top which will be hosted by Santa.

All profits from the first show will be donated to the Mayor's chosen charities, Mountbatten Hampshire and the Remembrance Walk at Itchen Valley Country Park.

Tickets are available to book for any of the shows between December 3 and January 2.