A young magician is aiming to do a disappearing act... and be crowned the best illusionist in a national competition.
Darren McDonald will appear with seven other hopefuls from around the country at the Magic Circle's Young Magician of the Year Competition final in London on July 13.
The 14-year-old Heckmondwike Grammar School pupil is hoping to impress the judges with an assortment of tricks.
Darren, who has been practising magic since the age of five and is a member of Bradford Magic Circle, said he performs what is known as a "comedy patter act".
"Many people do tricks to music but that is not really my style," he said. "This is a much better technique for me as when I go through my tricks I actually speak to the audience and explain what I'm doing.
"My routine at the final is about getting lost on the way to the contest in London. There are tricks involving ropes, paper and items which disappear."
The youngster said his favourite trick is the Vanishing Bandana. It's supposed to involve a bandana but Darren uses a banana instead.
Darren, who is also a member of the Northern Magic Circle and Merlins Magic Academy, said his style reflected that of his hero, Paul Daniels.
The young illusionist has met his idol and also flew to America to meet David Copperfield in 1998 after winning a top prize on the BBC show Whatever You Want.
Darren, of Batley, is positive about his chances in the final after battling through the heats last month.
"I'm very excited," he said. "I've been fortunate to get through to the final and because my act is a bit different from most of the others I have a chance to win it."
In the final the competitors have to present a stage act lasting between eight and 12 minutes.
Contestants will be judged on their magical content and technique, general conjuring ability and their presentation, appearance and personality.
The competition, at the Magic Circle headquarters, has been held biennially since 1961.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article