Stranded circus performers go missing in Morecambe

Jhanys Corrales and Sandy Triana, from Cuba, both work at the Big Kids Circus which became stranded in Morecambe after travel was banned during lockdown.

But on Monday (July 13), the pair disappeared overnight without telling anyone that they were leaving or where they were going.

After the pair failed to return to camp on Morecambe Prom, the circus reported their disappearance to police yesterday (Thursday, July 15).

They are both now the focus of a missing person's investigation.

A spokesman for Lancashire Police said: "We are becoming concerned for the welfare of Jhanys Corrales and Sandy Triana.

"They were last seen at the circus and it is believed they left overnight on Monday night.

"We want to know they are safe and well as they have not told anyone at the circus that they were leaving or where they were going.

"We would urge them if they are reading this post to please make contact with Lancashire Police on 101 quoting log number 0656 of July 15."

The 35-strong circus group, including 25 artists from the Cirque de Cuba, had been unable to work or claim benefits whilst stranded in Morecambe during lockdown. The artists are not eligible for any government support as they are not EU or UK citizens.

The circus usually travels across the UK and south east Asia, but has been stranded in Morecambe since March after the government's coronavirus lockdown restrictions meant they were unable to perform or travel.

But the local community has rallied together to support the performers, donating food parcels and clothes, and the circus members returned the favour by volunteering at Morecambe Food Bank.

They have been helped in their stay in Morecambe by Lancaster City Council, who have also provided them with electricity, running water and refuse collections.

You can read all about the circus' time stranded in Morecambe and the challenges the group are facing in our full report here.