A magician says he feels “honoured” to have become vice-president of The Magic Circle.
Michael J Fitch, from Colchester, had been on the society’s council for four years before he was elected to his new role on Monday.
The award-winning magician discovered his love for the art when he was four and has since gone on to perform around the globe for celebrities, royalty and dignitaries.
The Magic Circle, which was founded in 1905, is an international group with about 1,700 members.
Mr Fitch, who works at Gordon Ramsay’s restaurants and Marvin’s Magic Academy in Forte Village Resort, Sardinia, said Debbie McGee was one of the people who had put him forward for the role.
Referring to his childhood, he said: “I used to be at Colchester Zoo every day in the holidays, and that is where I really learnt the tools of the trade.
“The support of Essex is why I do what I do.”
He added that a highlight of his career so far was performing for the Queen at Buckingham Palace.
Marvin Berglas, the president of The Magic Circle, said: “Michael is an exceptional magician and an outstanding ambassador for the art of magic.
“His passion, creativity and dedication make him the perfect choice as vice-president, especially as we celebrate 120 years of The Magic Circle.”