CROWDS are promised first-class action as motorcycle madmen and high wire flyers roll into town for the Bolton Show next month.

The event is one of the biggest of its kind in the country, with crowds of more than 75,000 expected over the August 17 and 18 weekend -- and organisers say some of the acts for this year will take people's breath away.

A spokesman for the council said: "It will be a spectacular day out for all the family with a whole host of entertainment and stalls to cater for all tastes.

"And there are more action-packed performances still to be announced."

Show organisers at Bolton Council have already started to sign up performers for the 24th annual event at Leverhulme Park, Breightmet.

Among those already confirmed is high wire star The Great Carlieno, who will be high on the list of must-see entertainment for families. The international star has signed up to perform at the event and will amaze visitors with his stunts 50ft up in the air.

He made the headlines in 2000 as he crossed the River Severn at Worcester on a tightrope -- a distance of 160ft.

This time Bolton crowds will witness him riding the wire on his bike without a safety net. His display will include a blindfold ride, blindfold walk and a balancing act with The Great Carlieno riding along the wire with his assistant Samantha on the front of his cycle.

The Motorcycle Madmen are also expected to bring in the crowds with their daredevil antics, which will include driving through a ring of fire.