A CELEBRITY magician from Colchester has been honoured by the Magic Circle.

Michael J Fitch, 42, has risen another step in the premier magical society, which has an international membership of 1,500 professionals.

He has been honoured as a Member of the Inner Circle with gold star.

There are just 300 membership places for magicians to be given the accolade.

Mr Fitch grew up in Marks Tey where he lives with his wife, Helen, and their two daughters, Savannah, 17, and Scarlett, 13.

His successful career has seen him star in his own TV magic shows, take residency at Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen and perform at the Queen’s Golden Jubilee.

A delighted Michael said: “It is like getting an MBE in the magic world.

“When I got the call about it over Zoom I was sitting with a picture of my dad looking over me.

“He passed away last year and was my number one fan.

“It was a very emotional moment and an honour to receive it.”

His career has also allowed him to travel abroad, including spending summers at Marvin Berglas’ Magic School in Sardinia.

He has also helped create the Rubik’s Amazing Box of Tricks inspired by the famous cube.

And has been helping to bring magic to a younger generation with a stint presenting on shopping channels.

When the pandemic hit shows were put on hold and the industry has had to diversify to keep going.

Virtual meetings and Zoom calls have allowed Mr Fitch to continue to spread a bit of joy with magic lessons and parties for youngsters.

But Mr Fitch admits the past ten months have been tough.

“It has been a struggle,” he said. “I miss getting out there and performing.

“It has allowed me to do some of the jobs I put off for 40 years like clearing the loft and organising but I am really looking forward to being able to get back.

“When everyone has been vaccinated and gets the all clear I don’t think anyone is going to take life for granted. It has been a real leveller.”