A “PSYCHIC surgeon”, who claims to perform operations using the power of his mind, has been booked to appear at Colchester’s council-run Charter Hall.

Gary Mannion believes he is able to channel the skill of a dead healer, called Abraham, using him to treat ailments ranging from gallstones to brain tumours.

Mr Mannion is a controversial figure, with critics saying he is wrong to take money from the public for performing procedures which have no medical foundation.

In 2008, he was ordered by Harrow Council to remove a testimonial from his website, alleging he had cured cancer.

Last year he was the subject of a BBC3 documentary, called Gary: Young, Psychic and Possessed, which led to further investigations by trading standards chiefs.

Psychics are among the most popular and highest-paid people appearing at Charter Hall. But hosting Mr Mannion’s show represents a departure for the council.

Rather than attempting to contact the dead, the 22-year-old tries to treat people with serious health problems, live on stage.

Tina Dopson, Colchester councillor responsible for communities, said: “Gary Mannion has hired Charter Hall for his forthcoming show on September 18. This event is part of a broad range of other events that occur at Charter Hall, which include comedy, ballet and music – among others.

“This show does not contravene Charter Hall programming policies and the content of this show is not endorsed by Colchester Council.”

Mr Mannion told the Gazette: “I don’t offer guarantees, in the same way the medical profession can’t offer guarantees.

“What I do is a non-invasive treatment. I carry out operations and a lot of times people can feel things going on inside them. People report some very good results.”