A BOLTON entertainer is hoping a touch of Maori magic could land him a spot at a top UK circus.

Paul Coleman is ready to unleash the ancient skill of Poi - or fire spinning - before judges at Blackpool's Tower Circus.

The 29-year-old performer, from Great Lever, has been selected to show off his skills in front of a panel of judges.

The fire king's act sees him brandish two flaming "nunchakus" in each hand while performing various marshal-art style movements.

Paul is one of 15 performers keen to win the prize of guesting in front of a 800-strong audience at the Blackpool circus later this year.

He said: "I first learnt fire spinning at the Glastonbury Festival three years ago and I've gone hellfire at it ever since.

"If I won, it would be such a thrill to perform in front of so many people."

The Bolton showman has previously demonstrated his talents at the town's Atlantis nightclub and notched up gigs in Newcastle and Milton Keynes.

Fire spinning is an energetic activity that increases flexibility and strength in the hands and arms, along with improving co-ordination.

Poi was used by the indigenous people of New Zealand before they went into battle.

Paul said: "It's a great cardio-vascular exercise. It gets you breathless and sweating a lot."

The audition takes place on July 19 and Paul will unveil his tricks before the circus director Laci Endresz Senior.

The Blackpool circus was voted the UK's best for the fourth successive year recently and features a range of world-famous acts up to four times a day in peak season.

Paul is looking to start up fire-spinning teaching classes and instruct wannabe performers on his website. For more information, call him on 07729949650 or visit: www.domorepoi.com

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