A MAGICIAN who was bedazzled by a magic shop nestled in Stourbridge’s Old Quarter when he was just nine-year-old has taken over the business and given it a new lease of life.

The House of Magic UK shop, originally opened by Stourbridge master magician John Milner, has been quietly closed for the last three years since Stuart Millward called it a day.

But David Pitt, who first set foot in the shop 20 years ago as a child, has now taken over the business which has its official re-opening on Saturday December 4.

Professional working magician David, who was mentored by John Milner - a long-time member of The Magic Circle, had hoped to re-open the venture around Christmas 2020 but the pandemic put paid to his plans.

However, after many months of hard work getting the business ready to re-open, it has finally re-opened its doors to magic fans.

The interior has been given a new look and there are a few hidden surprises inside the shop which is one of just a few remaining bricks and mortar magic shops in the UK.

David, a magic show entertainer on cruise ships and some of the country's best known holiday parks, said it was "quite weird" to be taking on the shop where he learned his trade all those years ago but he told the News: "I was determined to get it. It means a lot to me. It's brilliant."

The 29-year-old illusionist, who also works as a car body repairer and nightspot security guard, added: “The shop has an amazing history and actually opened in September 2001 under the management of John Milner and Tracie Hughes.

“The grand opening was attended by Wayne Dobson and the local media. At the time, the shop provided so much more than props for magicians, there were lectures from big name entertainers, shows and even lessons, attended by many future professionals.

“Eventually Stuart Millward, who worked in the shop for many years, took over the business and the shop continued to provide a service to magicians all over the world until just a few years ago.

“But it's now time to welcome old faces back, provide a quality service to working professionals and hopefully help a new generation of young magicians looking to improve their craft.”

Mr Milner, who has been a working magician for 60 years, said it was "absolutely fantastic" to see the shop brought back to life and he added: "Especially with David running it. We had lots of famous magicians here - so hopefully we'll get some more. This is the only bricks and mortar magic shop in the Midlands."

The shop will be open Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays, from 10am to 5.30pm.

Check out @Houseofmagicuk to find out more.