So popular have the equestrian performances been at Zippos Circus that Tom’s acts have become a regular feature of the show and he has returned every year with an entirely different routine. His hard work has been reflected in the fact that Tom and his wife Linda won the national award for ‘Best Circus Equestrian Act’ in 1997, 1999, 2000, 2001 and yet again in 2006. They can now also proudly boast the words “by Royal appointment”: in May 2002 the team were invited to Windsor to perform in front of HM The Queen in the spectacular ‘All The Queen’s Horses’ show.

Tom also continues to win regular acclaim for his unequalled animal husbandry and he received a glowing report following an (unannounced) inspection by the esteemed animal behaviourist Dr Marthe Kiley-Worthington (B.Sc.D.Phil.M.Phil). She acknowledged that the facilities Tom offers his horses match, if not indeed surpass, those offered by most horse management schemes in the United Kingdom today.

Meanwhile, the popularity of Tom’s young daughter Kristina, with her flaming red curls, cheeky smile and bubbly personality, continues to steal the limelight and endears herself to audiences everywhere. This year the plucky little ‘senorita’ has selected just one of her tiny Falabella horse team to join her in the ring, performing a delightful Spanish routine that will leave audiences spellbound.