CLOWNING around has helped put Hampshire at the centre of the world's funny map.

Talented jesters in the county scooped a third of the awards at a ceremony described as the Oscars of the clowning industry, beating competition from across the globe,

The annual Clowns International event, which was held in Barnsley, saw five local acts recognised for their abilities to make people laugh on a global stage.

Organisers say it's astounding that so much talent lies in one county, but modest Hampshire clowns believe it is just a coincidence.

Husband and wife team Jay and Crazy M, from Southampton, who are well known throughout the region for their Krazy Kapers double act, picked up the Rainbow Award for most innovative mime show.

The couple, who celebrated their clown-themed wedding two years ago, have been clowning for about 13 years. They are now expecting their first child in May, who they hope will

follow in their footsteps with the stage name Bee-Bee.

Jay of Grove Gardens, Sholing, said: "I feel over the moon about

winning. It's quite an honour to be recognised by your peers in this way."

Crazy M said: "I think it's just a coincidence that we've got a bunchof great clowns in Southampton.

"For me personally, I love making people laugh. Making other people happy makes you happy."

Meanwhile, Bluey, who has been clowning for more than 30 years, scooped the Barbara Miller Award for displaying the best timing, precision and attack.

The 61-year-old, of Sandpiper Close, Marchwood, who has won three awards to date, said: "I'm thrilled to bits about winning the award.

"Being a clown is a great job. I just love it.

"You have the freedom to do things you wouldn't usually do and there' lots of opportunity to improvise."

The Stone and Taffy Slapstick Award was presented to Happy and Little Nick, who form part of Happy Circus.

The pair, based in Four Acres, Botley, have more than 40 years' of performing experience between them. Happy, 49, said: "I decided to be a clown because it's in my family. My father was a clown and my children are clowns.

"The award is a great honour. It's nice to be recognised and it's a great feather to have in our caps.

"I think it's just by chance that clowns in Southampton seem to win awards every year."