It is with great sadness that I type the news that one of television’s most well known magicians has tragically lost his battle with life, having recently be diagnosed with an untreatable brain tumour, following a recent fall

Within the world of magic Paul was an inspiration to several generations of young magicians, and still holds the record for the longest running TV Show from 1979 to 1994 and up until last year was still touring with his long time magical assistant and wife, ‘the lovely Debbie Mcgee’

A regular face at The Magic Circle, Paul was always willing to chat (you normally were listening most of the time), but had a wonderful knowledge of all aspects of magic, both modern and historic

I remember having lunch with him and Debbie whilst he was in rehearsals for the new format of his TV magic show, and he was still as excited about it even after all his years in the business

However, my favourite time watching Paul, was during The Magic Circles Centenary Celebrations, in 2005 which Paul hosted one of the evenings with anecdotes, guests and clips from his numerous TV shows, during which he showed some footage of when he performed a card trick for two chimpanzees, who were more interested in the items on the table. Paul adlibbed all the way through and it was hilarious. However Paul also explained how they got the Chimps to react the way they did, and be so interested in the various tins and boxes on the table – well worth a watch on Youtube.

A fantastic entertainer, with very strong views who could hold an audience like no other performer, my thoughts are with Debbie, Martin, Gary and his other family and close friends

Sleep peacefully Paul ….