Blue heritage plaque to be unveiled in honour legendary clown Charlie Cairoli

Friday, 24 October 2025 17:29

By Central Radio News

A special ceremony will take place at the world-famous Blackpool Tower Circus to celebrate the unveiling of a Blue Heritage Plaque honouring one of Britain’s most beloved circus performers, Charlie Cairoli.

Organised by the Charlie Cairoli Appreciation Society in partnership with the Blackpool Civic Trust, the event will see the plaque presented to the Cairoli family in the circus ring at 11:30 am on Saturday November 1, before being installed in the main entrance of the Blackpool Tower Circus, opposite the Tower’s own heritage plaque.

In a heartfelt tribute to Cairoli’s signature image, each guest will receive a bowler hat – a nod to Charlie’s iconic costume. At the close of the presentation, guests will join together in a joyful moment as 100 bowler hats are tossed into the air, captured in a commemorative photograph.

Following the unveiling, guests will enjoy a three-course gala dinner at the Imperial Hotel, Blackpool, featuring a charity auction in support of the British Heart Foundation and another charity chosen by the Cairoli family.

“This plaque is a long-overdue tribute to one of the greatest entertainers ever to grace the ring at Blackpool Tower Circus,” said Nigel Male, founder of the Charlie Cairoli Appreciation Society. “Charlie

‘’Cairoli brought laughter and joy to millions, and it’s a privilege to ensure his legacy lives on in the heart of Blackpool, where he performed for nearly four decades.”

Charlie Cairoli was one of Britain’s most celebrated clowns and a cornerstone of British circus heritage.

Performing for 39 consecutive seasons at the Blackpool Tower Circus, his musical comedy, warmth, and charm captivated audiences across generations.

Founded in 1994 by Nigel Male, the Charlie Cairoli Appreciation Society exists to preserve and promote the life and legacy of Charlie Cairoli through exhibitions, publications, and heritage projects.

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