Calne magician Derek McFaull has cast his best spell yet - he has just been appointed president of the International Brotherhood of Magicians.

As part of his new duties, the grandfather from Quemerford will travel the world visiting some of the brotherhood's 300 groups in 73 countries.

Mr McFaull, who has been practising magic for 40 years, was appointed as president two weeks ago.

He said: "After a lifetime of magic I have been elected and installed as a president of an amazing institution. This is the pinnacle of my career."

Mr McFaull's first performed in front of an audience at a Sunday school party when he was 12 after receiving a magic set for his birthday.

When he was 16 he first appeared on television and from then on he has performed across Wiltshire and the country.

From stage illusions to close up magic tricks Mr McFaull is still an active magician.

He said: "Magic has changed these days. People don't go theatres and they don't have magical shows anymore.

"I want to keep magic alive and am even training up my grandson to be the next magician in the family."

Mr McFaull refused to divulge the secrets behind his magic tricks, saying he has a gentleman's agreement with the brotherhood.

He said his best trick involves making a woman disappear into thin air.

The International Brotherhood of Magicians has more than 13,000 members and the minimum age of membership is ten.

Its next magical convention will be held in Louisville, America in July 2008.

For more information about the group go to the website www.magician.org