THE thunder of hooves is being replaced by the flap of clowns' feet - as the circus has come to Chepstow Racecourse.

The Netherlands National Circus has stopped in the town at the beginning of its eight-month UK tour.

It bills itself as a traditional family circus and promises aerial acts, foot jugglers, clowns, high-wire artists, trampolinists, jugglers and performers from across the world. The circus was established in 1948 and tours with a 1,200-seat, heated big top. Its final performances are today at 4.45pm and 7.30pm.