British circus clowns say they are getting increasingly worried about being sued by disgruntled spectators for throwing custard pies in their faces.

At its annual meeting in London, Clowns International -- the world's oldest organisation for professional clowns -- said the concern had arisen because the general public had got keener on litigation.

One clown, Clive Webb, said that while in the past pies used to be thrown all over the audience, there was a constant worry now about being taken to court.

The group's honorary vice-president, Martin "Zippo" Burton, said no clown had been sued so far, but he warned that in future care should be taken to target only fellow clowns and celebrities.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service