DAREDEVILS who have performed throughout the world are in Greenock as part of a new jaw-dropping circus show.

The popular Zippos circus raised the curtain once again at Battery Park on Tuesday night, with a host of new acts and incredible stunts.

Among the line-up for the ‘OMG’ tour are Duo Galaxy from Germany on the ‘wheel of death’, pictured.

Stuntman Marcus Köllnal — assisted by his wife Gabi — performs a catalogue of flips and tricks on a contraption similar to an industrial-scale hamster wheel which is attached to a beam and spins like a windmill.

The fifth generation circus entertainer also takes to stilts and climbs on top of the metal frame while the equipment is revolving, in an incredible display of agility.

The act has claimed the lives of performers in the past, but Marcus says it is the danger which drives him on.

He told the Tele: “I’ve been doing this 18 years but it’s actually very dangerous and you need lots of concentration.

“Many people have fallen down and it’s finito.

“It’s fast and I also go outside on stilts. I’m nervous all the time but that’s good because then you don’t lose the respect.When I’m backstage behind the curtain I can feel the pressure.” This is Duo Galaxy’s first time in Greenock and Marcus has been blown away by the scenery and warm welcome from local people.

He said: “It’s nice, the people are really friendly. I like Scotland, it’s beautiful — especially this area when you go outside and see the hills and water.” Zippos also features performers from South America, Africa and Europe in its cast, including Brazilian stunt team Lucius Troupe and their ‘globe of terror’, which sees up to four motorcyclists whizz around a steel structure at speeds in excess of 60mph.

No circus would be complete without plenty of laughs and Zippos delivers plenty in the form of the world-famous Rastelli clowns plus equestrian acts featuring Summer and her magnificent stallions.

They all perform under the watchful eye of legendary ringmaster Norman Barrett MBE, above, and his amazing budgies.

Norman — who will be 80 in December — said: “The circus is more thrilling and exciting this year than ever.” Zippos at the Battery Park is on until Sunday with two performances daily.

Tickets are available from the on-site box office or by calling 0871 210 2100.