Mathew Knight was a double winner at The Magic Circle’s Close-Up Magician of the Year Awards this week. Not only did the Nottingham performer win the overall award from a small panel of judges but he also took home the Audience Choice Award – voted on by over 100 members watching in the club’s theatre at their London HQ and over 100 watching online.

Mathew, who joined the Society 11 years ago, was overwhelmed by his win. “I’m flabbergasted,” he said, paying particular tribute to his mentor, fellow Nottingham magician Marc Oberon.

He beat seven other finalists to the title. James Pritchard was declared the Runner Up. The other finalists were Damian Surr, Shang Ma, Alex Sprackling, Sid Quatrine, Alexander Crawford and Jason Ouyang.

The Magic Circle President Marvin Berglas said: “The competition represented a diverse mix of styles and talent and it was a real pleasure for our packed audience. Mathew Knight was a popular winner – performing his signature Invisible Date effect and some surprising productions. With the club going from strength to strength I hope this year’s competition inspires more of our members to try and win this prestigious title in the future.”.