News

Magician makes it into elite Magic Circle

Published

7 years ago

October 5, 2017

TOM LUDDINGTON (stage name Tom Thumb Magic) has recently become the only Magician in Pembrokeshire to be a full member of the prestigious Magic Circle in London.

To become a member of the most secretive club in the world, magicians have to be put forward by two existing members who have known them for at least a year. After an initial interview and period of apprenticeship, candidates then have to pass an exam which involves performing magic to around 50 members at the Magic Circle headquarters near Euston in London.

Three judges then meet at council to decide if the magic and presentation were good enough to award full membership.

Tom said: “I was delighted to pass the exam. I have met some wonderful magicians at the Magic Circle over the past few years, and I’m proud to now be part of the same club as the biggest names in Magic such as Derren Brown, Dynamo and David Blaine.

“It’s not easy to get in, but once you are in you have access to a huge library of magic books and resources – and of course other members are happy to share many of their secrets and to work together to take the art of magic to the next level at club meetings and events. Being a member has already taken my magic to the next level again.”

Tom’s style of magic is known as ‘close up magic’ where the magic happens right in front of you and often in the hands of the audience. Having a magician at your wedding or party has become really popular again due to successful magicians appearing on shows like Britain’s Got Talent and Pen and Teller’s Fool Us.

Tom has been performing magic professionally for over 10 years, but this boost has given him the confidence to go full time as a Magician:

He continued: “I love all styles of Magic, and I perform intimate parlour shows and up on stage – but my favourite style is ‘close up’ magic. There are no TV camera tricks, or smoke and mirrors to hide behind and people love that. I’ve spent well over 10,000 hours perfecting my illusions and invested everything in magic so that I can create in others a real sense of amazement and wonder. I believe magic done well can be something really special as well as being great fun. It’s a great feeling to be able to share magic with people. A dream job for me.”

As well as performing at weddings and parties, Tom is the resident magician at the award winning Grub Kitchen Restaurant in St Davids – now taking bookings for Christmas Parties with added Magic.

Tom also runs workshops and private lessons in London and Pembrokeshire coaching ‘bona fide students of magic’ in the art of illusion and wonder.

Crime

Mother admits to killing seven-year-old son in Haverfordwest

Published

6 hours ago

November 22, 2024

Luke Sinclair

A mother has admitted to the manslaughter of her seven-year-old son at their home in Haverfordwest, citing diminished responsibility.

Papaipit Linse, 43, appeared at Swansea Crown Court on Friday (Nov 22), where she denied murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of her son, Louis Linse. Prosecutor Caroline Rees KC confirmed the manslaughter plea would be accepted, stating it “did not come as a surprise” to the prosecution.

The incident occurred on 10 January when police were called to a property on Upper Market Street. Louis was rushed to Withybush General Hospital but tragically died shortly afterwards.

During the hearing, Linse, who spoke only to confirm her name and enter her pleas, was informed that she would be sentenced on 13 December. Judge Paul Thomas KC described the case as “clearly a very sensitive as well as a very tragic case.”

The court was told that Linse is currently receiving treatment at the Caswell Clinic, a mental health facility in Bridgend. Psychiatric evidence is expected to be presented during the sentencing hearing to provide further insight into the circumstances surrounding the case.

Community

Council warns of icy conditions as temperatures drop

Published

19 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

ROAD users in Pembrokeshire are being urged to exercise caution tonight as temperatures are forecast to dip below freezing.

Pembrokeshire County Council has announced that road surface temperatures could reach as low as -2°C, with the possibility of sleet or snow on higher ground. In response, precautionary salting of the county’s primary routes will be carried out this evening and overnight.

A spokesperson for the council said: “Road users are advised to take care if travelling on untreated roads.”

Motorists are reminded to plan ahead and drive carefully, particularly in areas that may not have been treated.

Stay tuned to The Herald for updates on road conditions and weather warnings.

Community

Stallholders wanted for Milford Haven Christmas Market

Published

19 hours ago

November 21, 2024

Tom Sinclair

MILFORD HAVEN BUSINESS CIRCLE is calling for stallholders to join the town’s festive Christmas Market, set to bring holiday cheer on Friday, December 6, and Saturday, December 7, 2024.

The market will take place at the Lower Charles Street Car Park, promising a vibrant mix of stalls and attractions. Organizers are seeking a variety of vendors, including those offering gifts, children’s toys and games, food, cakes, flowers, and more.

There’s also an open invitation for someone with small children’s rides to add to the festive fun. A highlight of the event will be the Grinch’s Grotto, offering an entertaining twist to this year’s celebrations.

If you’re interested in having a stall, contact the Milford Haven Business Circle via email at [email protected] for more information.

Mark your calendars and join the excitement as Milford Haven celebrates the season in style!