THE return of the circus to Lion Green is under threat following concern over noise and damage to the green's surface.

At a meeting of the finance and general purposes committee last Thursday, members expressed support for the circus in principle, but felt the Fairground car park would be a preferable location.

Jay Millar's Circus was held on the green in September and was well-attended, with 350 visitors writing to express their enthusiasm for the event, many describing it as "brilliant" and "entertaining".

But a few residents in Stile Gardens, which border Lion Green, complained that the noise was excessive, preventing them from the enjoying their gardens in the evening.

Jacquie Keen said she supported the idea of a circus in the town, but felt that Lion Green was the wrong location.

"I'm not anti-circus in Haslemere but I'm concerned that it goes in the right place. We were lucky this year with the weather. We had a very dry spell so the green didn't suffer too much from the machinery.

"The £1,000 deposit wouldn't go anywhere near sorting out the problems if the green became damaged and it is all too close to the local residents."

Her views were reiterated by Mark Lelliott.

"I suggest the circus moves to the Fairground car park because the surface is more able to deal with it.

"Although 350 people have expressed positive views, it is not democratic to allow the majority to impose their views on the minority."

But mayor Michael Foster and James Mackie disagreed, both claiming that the circus would have minimal impact upon the green's surface.

"When the Three Counties Church had their marquee event there, it involved driving heavy good vehicles on the green and that wasn't a problem," said Mr Foster.

"In autumn when the ground is at its driest I think it's fine to have it there.

Mr Mulliner added: "You're never going to please everyone. But given the persistent complaint that there is never anything for young people to do, I'm not in favour of cancelling a successful circus.

"We should welcome it back on the car park and perhaps it can go back to Lion Green after a year's gap when we have consulted professionals about how the grass can be better protected.

"There are times when you have to realise there are other people on the planet who want to enjoy themselves."

But Barbara Jeffers urged caution, highlighting that the town council does not own Fairground car park and any relocation of the circus would have to be agreed with the borough council.

The matter was deferred until the next full council meeting.