Businesses have been asked to show their hearts so disadvantaged local children can have an unforgettable visit to the Big Top.

Circus Starr is coming to Silsden this spring to put on two performances, with proceeds from tickets going to the Sue Ryder Manorlands hospice in Oxenhope.

The not-for-profit circus troupe from Congleton, Cheshire, offers free tickets to local disabled and underprivileged children by asking for donations from businesses in the areas it visits.

Over the last decade the group has raised more than £900,000 for UK charities by donating any surplus revenue to a nominated local organisation.

Founded in 1987, Circus Starr started out by taking a Big Top to 20 towns and cities each year, but demand means it now visits 75 towns a year, with the goal of adding another 15 over the next five years.

In 2012, free tickets, worth nearly £1.4 million, were donated to British children through schools and organisations.

The spring tour could see the group provide another 35,000 free tickets for disadvantaged children in England and Wales as it tours towns and cities including Silsden.

The circus comes to the Silsden car boot site on Low Woodside Farm on Sunday, April 28.

Anyone who wants to donate money to Circus Starr can contact Michelle Crossley on 01260 288690 or michelle@circus-starr.co.uk.

Tickets are available on circus-starr.co.uk.