The Weston-super-Mare Sand Sculpture Festival will return to the seafront this year – and its theme has been chosen.

Weston Mercury: There may be fewer sharks this year, but we may still see some animals made from sand.There may be fewer sharks this year, but we may still see some animals made from sand. (Image: Archant)

A number of suggestions were made for what this year’s event could focus on, following on the heels of last year’s topsy turvy theme.

This year, it will revolve around the circus.

It is 250 years since the first circuses began, when Philip Astley installed his entertainments in a ring in London in 1768.

Cities all around the wold will mark the anniversary, and Weston will host 30 sculptures made from more than 5,000 tons of sand.

Weston Mercury: A rather odd creature from last year's festival.A rather odd creature from last year's festival. (Image: Archant)

Festival co-organiser Nicola Wood said: “This has been a popular suggestion for many years but 2018 is the perfect year for the celebration because we can join a worldwide reunion.

“Being a huge circus fan myself the problem is editing the ideas, not creating them. Circus is fun, vibrant and triumphant-we have to go big.”

Visitors can expect to see acrobats, animals and clowns, and can enjoy plenty of photo opportunities.

In total, 16 international artists will prepare their masterpieces to tell the story of circuses.

Weston Mercury: Last year's festival.Last year's festival. (Image: Archant)

You could even have the chance to get your hands dirty with a workshop area.

There will be facilities for schools, workshops for companies and live circus acts throughout the season.

The third Weston Sand Sculpture Championships will also take place, when 10 of the world’s best sand sculpting talents go head to head for a £1,000 prize.

The festival will open on March 30 and run until October.

Tickets will cost £3-4, with family tickets available.