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Austin Mini Van Billy Smarts Circus

1946 heralded the first ever Billy Smart's Circus which appeared at Southall Park and then toured alongside Smart's Funfair. It became incredibly successful with the post-war general public and featured regularly on TV. Televised Easter and Christmas Circus extravaganzas became a vital part of viewing. In 1956 Billy Smart appear on the 'This is Your Life' programme. He was a man who led and lived the circus life to the full and was known for his larger-than-life presence, big fat cigar, Stetson hat and ebullient personality.

He continued to bring his colourful circus to the masses throughout the 50's, 60's and into the 70's. At the height of its powers Billy Smart's Circus toured the whole of Britain, with a huge 6000 seater big top, an army of international circus artistes, and a 200 strong host of elephants, lions, horses, polar bears, camels, sea lions, and chimpanzees.

Billy Smart died in showman's style having just led a parade through the streets of Ipswich.