Museum acquires famous clown collection

Charlie Cairoli was one of the most famous entertainers at Blackpool's Tower Circus where he performed for almost four decades

A museum has acquired an archive collection celebrating the legacy of Italian clown Charlie Cairoli.

He was one of the most famous entertainers at Blackpool's Tower Circus where he performed for almost four decades, from 1939.

The collection, which includes programmes and letters, will be displayed at Showtown, Blackpool’s showbiz museum.

Blackpool Council leader Lynn Williams said: "With nearly 40 seasons spent as the star of the Blackpool Tower circus, Charlie Cairoli is a true local legend."

The collection includes programmes, handbills, letters and newspaper articles

Williams said: "The acquisition, celebrating one of Britain’s most famous clowns, will ensure that the heritage collection remains in Blackpool, where it belongs."

Cairoli settled in Blackpool in 1939 following the outbreak of World War Two and remained in the town until his death in 1980.

A standout element of the collection is a series of letters from the British entertainment industry, written in support of him.

It includes correspondence that document his performances at the Tower Circus and his contributions to the war effort through numerous performances across the country.

Materials from the renowned Fratellini family, a European circus family who were popular in the late 1910s and 1920s, also feature.

Cairoli settled in Blackpool in 1939 following the outbreak of World War Two

Caroline Hall from Showtown said: "Charlie Cairoli has always been important to Blackpool, for the joy he brought to so many, and this acquisition ensures Charlie’s legacy is always celebrated in our vibrant seaside town.

"Blackpool Tower Circus has brought the best of international circus to our doorsteps every year for 130 years and this collection will enrich and grow our understanding of the significance of the Tower Circus and the acts that have performed there."

It will also be available for viewing and research at the Showtown History Centre, located within Blackpool Central Library and displayed at The Blackpool Tower.