Tommy’s in the special circle

3:09pm Thursday 14th December 2006

A NEWSPAPER vendor turned magician has been admitted into the Magic Circle.

Tommy Moss, of Connaught Avenue, Chingford, was told that his application to join the elite group of conjurers and illusionists was successful.

Mr Moss, 63, who sells newspapers at Temple station in London during the day, has been practising magic for only about two years.

He said: "I took it up late, although I have always done tricks. I am quite proud of becoming a member. Everybody always asks me if I am a member and it is nice to say yes, I am."

The process of admission to the Magic Circle involves an interview and a nerve-wracking 12-minute performance in front of 50 other magicians and three judges, which is assessed for originality, presentation and personality.

Mr Moss performs at weddings and parties, and has done shows for charities including the Haven House hospice.

In June, the Chingford Guardian reported that while on a cruise, Mr Moss was called upon to lift the spirits of passengers and crew when their ship became stranded at sea.