STONEHOUSE based magician Colin Dymond is toasting a double celebration after scooping a top Cotswold Magical Society award and being elected president of the association.

Trickster Colin, 47, who runs the Ace of Diamonds Magic Company, saw off competition from eight fellow magicians to bag the society’s annual close-up competition for the third year running – the first time any member has achieved such a feat.

He also came second overall in the stage performance category.

His winning act saw him transform a length of wire into a playing card selected by the judges and then morph another card into a solid block of plastic. He concluded his wide repertoire of tricks by demonstrating the infamous ‘find the lady’ three card sleight of hand, which he ended by seemingly producing his business card from thin air. Soon after receiving the cup from club president Bob King, Colin himself was bestowed the society’s top position.

"It was a real honour to take over from Bob, who has done the job so well for the past two years," said Colin, who has been a member of the prestigious Magic Circle since 1998.

"The competition was really tough so it felt great to win."

Having first established has magic company in London some 15 years ago, Colin can be hired to perform for both adults and children and several of his acts are available to watch on YouTube.

Later this year he is aiming to become an Associate of the Inner Magic Circle, which is an elite group of top performers from across the globe.

For more information or to book Colin call 0800 587 2931 or visit his website at www.aceofdiamonds.co.uk