If you holidayed in the UK in the 1970's this show personified what you experienced - Mostly good weather, seaside hotels and cheap and cheerful entertainment. The BBC decided to capitalise on the popularity of the summer season shows at the many holiday resorts around Britain by taking a circus tent around the country and inviting the stars of the local shows to headline their family friendly extravaganza. Many big names appeared on the stage of Gerry Cottle's big top including Abba, The Three Degree's, Ken Dodd, Paul Daniels and Cilla Black. Later editions ventured to the Channel islands and beyond adding more international acts such as Andy Williams. Dance troupe New Edition provided the energetic dance routines and even joined ex Womble Mike Batt several times to perform the theme "Summertime City" Presenters included Radio 1 and 2 DJ's including David Hamilton Noel Edmonds and Tony Blackburn who put his life in danger by singing Tie a yellow ribbon whilst trapped inside a cage full of impatient lions.
Many of the lesser acts were on borrowed time even then, with weak cabaret singers and "Comedians" who would have been booed off stage at your local working men's club, but a valuable time capsule of what you could expect at many end of the pier shows in the 70's.
