A BARRY magician has been crowned ‘Children’s Entertainer of the Year’ by the Cardiff Magical Society.

Simon Sparkles, 42, said: "It’s great to be recognised for my performances and for the work I have put in to being a magician and entertainer for all these years.”

Simon, from the West End of Barry, started performing magic when he was eight after his parents bought him a magic set.

"It just flourished from there, and I’ve been a professional entertainer for 25 years now," said the former Romilly Primary and Barry Boys pupil.

Simon, who has also done acting work with Pobol y Cwm and X-Ray, said that a highlight of his career had been working with world-renowned magician Paul Daniels.

"I was one of a select few to attend one of his master classes," he said.

And after his recent success, Simon is keeping his fingers crossed about gaining entry to prestigious organisation ‘The Magic Circle’ in London.

"You have to be at a certain level and go to an audition, but I’ve applied and am hoping to be accepted," he said.

Contact Simon Sparkles on 07780 841262 or visit www.kids-magic-show.co.uk