Blackpool's Mooky the Clown awarded King's medal

A clown who has been entertaining audiences in Blackpool for more than 30 years has received a British Empire Medal after being recognised in the King's Birthday Honours.

Laci Endresz - who performs as Mooky the Clown - was presented with the medal for circus entertainment by His Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire, Amanda Parker, at a ceremony at Lancaster Castle.

Endresz was born into a circus family, first performing as a clown in his family's show, at the age of four.

He said receiving the medal was "an incredibly special day for me and my family". "It was quite overwhelming. It is a moment we will cherish forever," he added.

Endresz joined Blackpool Tower Circus in 1992, taking on the role of Mooky the Clown in 1999, and has never missed a show.

In addition to performing in more than 350 shows each year, he writes and directs the entire circus production.

"Over the last three decades, I've had the honour of entertaining millions of visitors to the Blackpool Tower Circus," he said.

"It isn't a job to me, it is my passion and calling in life."

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