A Circus Disaster

On 11 August 1900 John Sanger’s circus was on Southsea common with accommodation for 2,000 people. A strong wind was blowing so the proprietors decided to finish the afternoon show early. This proved a good move as soon after 5p.m. a sudden squall descended ripping the big top from its moorings. It rose in the air before falling back on some people standing nearby. Several people were injured and a 14 year old boy died.