Skipton magician Mark Waddington has been voted best in the UK through an on-line talent search directory.

Starnow.co.uk invited entertainers throughout the country to send their details to the on-line contest. Viewers were then invited to vote for their favourite and Mark came in the top ten.

It was then down to the judges to cast their own votes and they picked Mark as their favourite.

“I was delighted and thrilled because I also won £1,000, which I’ll be using towards buying some new props for my show as well as taking some mates out for a drink. They’ve had a lot to put up with over the past few years,” said Mark.

Mark, 19, combines magic with cheeky comedy and wit to create a unique blend of entertainment.

Professional magician Mark Raffles has said Mark is “the most original magic act he’s seen” and 80s comedian Jimmy Cricket has nothing but praise for the young star after working with Mark on several occasions.

Mark has appeared in some of the UK’s most prestigious venues, including several appearances at the City Varieties Music Hall, Leeds.

He is an accomplished children’s magician and holds regular contracts with children’s museum EUREKA! in Halifax, as well as being resident magician and compere for the Skipton Waterways Festival.