An acrobat fell and died during a trapeze stunt at a circus in Germany.

The performer was around five metres above the ground when she fell in front of dozens of spectators, according to local media.

It happened at Circus Paul Busch in the east German town of Bautzen yesterday evening.

Emergency services rushed to the scene, but the woman was unable to be saved.

Specially trained experts were said to be offering support to witnesses.

Police spokesman Stefan Heiduck said: "The team was immediately deployed and cared for the guests and other circus employees."