IT was more than enough to put the smile back on the face of a clown.

For one of Britain's best-loved circus families are now back on the road.

A month ago a mystery blaze swept through the travelling home of the Botley-based Happy's Circus.

The Mercedes truck, which also carried the props, was parked outside the home of 50-year-old Russ Randelle and his children, Stephanie, 19, and 16-year-old Pip, in Four Acres.

Police have carried out investigations but the cause of the fire is still unknown.

No wheels Fortunately the props and costumes in the truck were not damaged by smoke but the Randelle family had no wheels to take their show around the country.

With a full book of engagements, and a Christmas show, Russ was close to tears when he told the Daily Echo: "I hate letting people down."

On the front of the burned-out cab Russ had planted flowers with the words RIP Happy's Circus 1992 -2006'.

However, a local transport company has stepped in after reading about the circus family's plight in the Daily Echo.

Russ said: "I got a call from Chris Pitter of Pitters Commercials in West End who asked how he could help.

"He supplied a truck at a greatly reduced amount and pulled out all the stops to get it an MoT and fit a tail lift and retractable towbar."

Mr Pitter, who handed over the keys, praised his staff and his company's suppliers for helping Happy's Circus get back on the road.

This week the cast of Happy's Circus, who are dedicated to bringing the traditional circus to schools and communities across the country, were in West Sussex rehearsing for their Christmas show.

With their new set of wheels, Russ said: "It really is a Happy Christmas for Happy's Circus."

For more details about Happy's Circus log on to www.happyscircus.co.uk.