Carriages Cafe, Newark – Distinctive Dining That’s First Class

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A tranquil and friendly cafe. Visit Carriages when you are next in Newark.

Newark Castle Station is one of the most vibrant transport hubs in the East Midlands, and it now boasts a truly exceptional dining facility. Carriages Cafe provides a first class service from within the elegant interior of the station building.

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There is ample space for functions such as parties, business events and club nights.

The friendly team are now serving an extensive range of hot and cold beverages, as well as a mouth-watering array of delicious meals and snacks, from 7.30pm to 5pm Monday to Friday, and 8pm to 5pm on Saturday. Why not pop in for a tasty treat when you are next in the area? The cafe is perfectly situated for local business people, commuters and visitors to enjoy.

Suzie Jones has invested much time and effort in restoring and enhancing the beautiful building. Her fantastic artwork is on display throughout the cafe and function room, and has created an enchantingly magical ambiance. Relax and watch the world go by at Carriages… but make sure you don’t miss your train!

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Suzie’s elegant artwork adorns the walls of Carriages and it has a truly unique character.

The venue also offers ample function space for social events, business promotions and family gatherings. With plenty of parking space available, contact Suzie and the team now to find out more about how you can make your next red letter day function in Newark one to savour. Their website is: www.carriagesnewark.co.uk Telephone number: 01636 676129.

David Fox is a professional entertainer and freelance writer who lives in Nottingham. Website: www.davidfoxmagician.co.uk  Telephone number: 07946 686 258.

 

Happy Birthday Helen and Su!

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Su and Helen hosted a very special birthday party with a difference!

I was profoundly flattered when Su Roys asked me to perform magic at a very special birthday party at the West Retford Hotel, Nottinghamshire, in December 2017. I first met Su at the offices of Siren FM, Lincoln, two years ago and I was delighted that my magic had left a lasting impression. Su and her twin sister Helen celebrated a very important birthday this year, and I was very privileged to be part of the proceedings.

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The sisters greet their guests in the wonderful surroundings of the West Retford Hotel.

The sisters had selected a wonderful venue for their celebrations. Situated in close proximity to the major A1 artery, the West Retford Hotel is perfect for parties, weddings and corporate functions. Indeed, Alice and the exceptional events team at the hotel ensured that Helen and Su’s birthday bash went down a storm!

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It was an immense pleasure to entertain Su and Helen’s lovely family and friends.

I am a very fortunate man to be invited to such momentous occasions. It truly was a tremendous experience to perform close-up magic and table-side illusions for Su and Helen’s nearest and dearest. In this fast-paced internet age we seldom have the opportunity to gather friends and family together to celebrate – so this was definitely a moment to savour. The sisters are blessed with a lovely group of relatives, and the exceptional Alistair Crust (Su and Helen’s brother) and his fiancée Holly Hardman were on hand to capture everything on camera!

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All generations came together to celebrate Su and Helen’s very special birthday.

After a fantastic meal, everyone present was treated to the prodigious talents of vocalist Dan Hadfield. This certainly was a birthday party with a difference and all the guests – from the youngest to the eldest – had an amazing time!

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The sensational Dan Hadfield ensured everyone was dancing well into the evening.

Happy birthday Helen and Su – and hopefully I will have the opportunity to entertain you again soon. Thank you for calling upon my services, and I wish you both all the very best for the future.

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Bridget, Su and Helen share some magic together.

The West Retford Hotel’s website is: www.westretfordhotel.co.uk

Hotel telephone number: 01777 706333

Dan Hadfield’s website is: www.garybarlowlookalike.com

For magic at your special event visit: www.davidfoxmagician.co.uk

Stubton Hall – Winter Showcase – 9th December 2017 – 3pm – 6pm

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If you are planning a wedding or special event with a difference, make sure you visit Stubton Hall on 9th December for their spectacular Winter Showcase. The venue has established an exceptional reputation, and has to be experienced to be fully appreciated. Jess and her fantastic events team will be on hand during the day to guide you around the hall and respond to any of your queries.

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Spacious and elegant banqueting facilities make Stubton Hall a popular choice for brides and a tremendous venue for magic! Photograph courtesy of Paul Massey

Located close to both the major A1 artery and the historic town of Newark, Stubton Hall boasts idyllic grounds, elegantly restored banqueting facilities, and first class accommodation for you and your guests. It has been a tremendous privilege to have performed at so many fantastic events here over the past few years. The events team are masters at ensuring excellence, and every bride and groom I have performed magic for have always been delighted with the exquisite level of service.

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A special magical effect for Steve and Sophie, August 2016. Captured by the fantastic Paul Massey.

I have had the pleasure to have worked with many fantastic suppliers at Stubton Hall. The immaculate photographer Paul Massey, who is based in Lincoln, very kindly provided photographs from Steve and Sophie’s wedding at Stubton Hall in August 2016. Ever the consummate professional, Paul will ensure all of those special moments are captured on your wedding day. Paul’s website is: www.masseyphotography.co.uk

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Visit Stubton Hall’s website at: www.stubtonhall.co.uk

Telephone number: 01636 626187

The winter showcase runs from 3pm to 6pm.

David Fox provides customised magic and entertainment for all sorts of special events. Visit his new website at: www.davidfoxmagician.co.uk

For a magician in Newark: Magician Newark 

David’s Telephone number: 07946 686 258

Magic, Hospitality and Networking at Harts Hotel, Nottingham

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Harts Hotel in Nottingham has developed an exceptional reputation over the past few years. The winner of numerous awards for exceptional service and cuisine, Harts is the first choice venue for business people visiting the city.

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In October the hotel hosted RSVIP’s networking event. This is an opportunity for business people from around the city and three counties to come together. Fiona Duncan has been organising such gatherings for several years now and they are always a tremendous success. Visit RSVIP’s website at: https://rsvipnetwork.co.uk/

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Networking is vital for small to medium sized businesses, and Fiona has helped new businesses thrive and develop with her unique service. The possibility to meet potential clients, suppliers and business experts can provide a tremendous boost to any enterprise.

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Exceptional local photographer Louise Mills was on hand to capture the event. Louise is in high demand for weddings, corporate functions and promotional shoots. Visit her website today at: http://www.louisemillsphotography.co.uk/

Why not contact Harts Hotel for your next special event in Nottingham? Their website is: https://www.hartsnottingham.co.uk/ and/or contact the events team on: 0115 988 1900.

David Fox is a professional magician based in Nottingham who performs throughout the world. His local website is: www.davidfoxmagician.co.uk

Christmas Competition – Win a Magic Set!

Win this amazing magic set for Christmas!

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Do you want to be the next Dynamo or David Copperfield? Amaze your friends and family this Christmas with some incredible magic! We’re giving away this amazing magic set with over 300 great tricks and illusions!

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Magic is fun and this magic set will help you learn and perform some fantastic effects!!

To enter the competition, ‘like’ us on Facebook and just answer the following question…

What is the name of the man who is famous for bending spoons who appears on the home page of David’s new website? www.davidfoxmagician.co.uk

Simply send your answer to us, along with your name, email address, postal address and mobile number, through the Contact Page on David’s website.

Don’t forget to ‘like’ and follow us on Facebook too for regular updates!We will announce the winner here!! www.facebook.com/davidfoxmagician

The prize draw will be made at midday on Monday 4th December 2017.

Terms and conditions: 1. You must be over 16 to enter 2. You must live in the UK 3. The draw will be made on 4th December 2017 at midday and the winner will be notified by email. Our decision is final, and the magic set will be posted by special delivery once the winner has responded to us.

Good Luck!

Happy Birthday Teresa!

‘What can I say about your stunning performance on Sunday?!’

Teresa Greener

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It was a tremendous pleasure and a great privilege to perform magic at Teresa Greener’s special birthday party at Pendley Manor in Tring, Hertfordshire. I have been very fortunate to have worked with Teresa before at important events she has organised with the Royal British Legion – most notably HRH Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations in London. As Head of Special Events and Philanthropy, Mrs Greener certainly knows how to meticulously organise and coordinate a wonderful occasion, and her fantastic birthday bash at this splendid venue was no exception to the rule.

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Pendley Manor Hotel, Tring, Hertfordshire.

Pendley Manor Hotel was the perfect setting for such a monumental celebration, and guests travelled from all over the world to share Teresa’s day. Not only does the hotel boast exceptional function suites and catering facilities, it is famous for the annual Shakespeare Festival which has taken place in its grounds since the 1940s.

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The exceptional Sheila Watts, Harpist.

The guests were treated to a trinity of prodigious musical talents. During arrival drinks and canapes, the immaculate melodies of harpist Sheila Watts enchanted and enthralled everyone present. After the meal, the Sugar Sisters took centre stage and delivered a spellbinding performance. The mercurial trio have developed a cult following since appearing on Terry Wogan’s radio show and captivated everyone present. Afterwards, the world-renowned Joe Stilgoe provided the perfect finale to a phenomenal day. A popular Jazz musician who has entertained both Prince Charles and Prince Phillip, his sublime set went down a treat with Teresa’s guests.

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The Sugar Sisters with the late great Sir Terry Wogan

In the presence of such wonderful talent, it truly was fantastic to perform close-up magic throughout the drinks reception and meal for everyone present. I was also delighted that Teresa requested that I perform a thirty minute parlour show of magic, illusion and intrigue after lunch. Indeed, it is always fantastic when the event organiser invests such a degree of trust in me on such an important occasion. It was a real pleasure to entertain such a lovely group of family and friends, and I was delighted to receive such a terrific reaction.

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Joe Stilgoe is a tremendous talent.

I wish Teresa all the very best for the future and do hope to see her again soon. For anyone who wishes to assist or contribute to the Royal British Legion, please visit their website at: www.britishlegion.org.uk or alternatively you can contact Teresa at: 020 3207 2275. Email: tgreener@britishlegion.org.uk

John Hotowka – Wit and Wisdom

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I was very fortunate to meet motivational speaker John Hotowka at Lisa and Jon’s wedding reception at Stoke Rochford Hall in June. John provides insightful and inspirational advice to many of the top companies throughout the UK. Drawing on his extensive business knowledge and skills, his much lauded ‘Achievement Thinking’ has permitted his clients to maximise potential and achieve their goals.

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It was great to meet John at Lisa and Jon’s wedding at Stoke Rochford Hall

John also performed for many years as a highly successful close-up magician, so I was delighted when he offered me some excellent tips and advice. It is always a great privilege to meet a seasoned performer, and I am always extremely appreciative for any assistance as I strive to develop and improve my repertoire and delivery.

A man of many talents, John has authored a book entitled ‘Everything You Wanted To Know About Table-Hoping But Were Afraid To Ask’. This extensive and thoughtful publication is packed with tremendous advice on how to survive, develop and succeed in the challenging world of close-up magic. John shares useful anecdotes, routines and insider information which will really help all levels of magician. Indeed, he very kindly posted a copy of his book to me and I will forever be very thankful to him for this.

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A close-up magician will face many challenges. John addresses these and offers invaluable advice.

To find out more about John and how he can assist you and your company, visit his website at: www.hotowka.co.uk or phone him now: 01274 685152.

Thanks again John, it was a real pleasure and I wish we had more time to chat. I hope to see you again in the future.

Big Frog Films – Exceptional Filming and Photography

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David performing for Barry at the Magic Alley in Stratford Upon Avon – Big Frog are the masters at capturing the magic!

Do you require a top quality show-reel or trailer to promote your business? Are you wanting to have those magical wedding day moments captured for eternity? Or perhaps you are an artist who would like to take an innovative and exciting new approach when filming your next music video or drama? Big Frog Films will ensure that all of your unique conditions are fulfilled – and more.

Nigel and his team have a tremendous wealth of experience at their disposal to ensure that your brief will be carefully considered, processed and delivered to an outstanding level. They boast an impressive portfolio of satisfied clients which includes: Unison, Bromsgrove District Council and Pyrex. Sensitivity, attention to detail and a passion for producing exceptional film and images are the immaculate hallmarks of their service.

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Big Frog Films are highly experienced in working in all types of situations and environments.

More and more couples are choosing to have their wedding day revelries captured on film, and you can rest assured that if you select Big Frog, you are in safe hands. The team will ensure that all of those special moments are expertly captured for you to share and appreciate in years to come. The company have worked at many of the top wedding venues around the UK and have the uncanny ability to simply blend into the proceedings and go with the flow on the big day.

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The sensitivity and friendliness of the team will ensure that you get the best shots and reactions for your business.

When it comes to creative and artistic filming, Big Frog are in a league of their own. The much acclaimed web series ‘Spooky Tales’ was filmed at various locations and the horror movie ‘Penny For The Guy’ has made a tremendous impact at film festivals. Midlands band The Cracked Actors excellent music video Tea is a testimony to the creative talents of Big Frog. The company proposed the concept for the production to the band, and also developed the structure, props and location for the filming itself.

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Big Frog have a tremendous knack at utilising locations to their maximum thus creating stunning film and images.

I was extremely fortunate to work with Big Frog in Stratford Upon Avon recently. Nigel and Mark filmed me performing close-up magic around the town centre and at The Ettington Park Hotel. It is not the easiest of tasks to film a magician in full flow but they carried off the brief with aplomb. I was very impressed with their creative flair as well as their tremendous attention to detail throughout. Please click the link below to watch Big Frog’s fantastic handiwork from the day.

David Fox Magic in Stratford Upon Avon Showreel

For more details, visit Big Frog Films’ website at: www.bigfrogfilms.co.uk or phone Nigel on 01527 61483 for more details.

David Fox is a professional entertainer based in the UK. His website is: www.magician-midlands.co.uk. Telephone number: 07946 686 258.

Jermy & Westerman: A Fine Bookshop in the Heart of Nottingham

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Are you seeking that elusive novel you’ve wanted for years? Perhaps you are a student who requires academic texts at an affordable price? Or maybe you simply relish the opportunity to disentangle yourself from the stresses of daily life and become sublimely immersed in an extensive array of literary delights?

Situated at 203 Mansfield Road, NG1 3FS, Jermy & Westerman have been offering an exceptional family service since 1978. You can always expect a very warm welcome, coupled with expert advice, from Geoff, Richard and their staff. The bookshop is well within striking distance of Nottingham city centre and is an excellent resource for students of Nottingham’s universities and colleges.

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The red cross marks the position of Jermy & Westerman at 203 Mansfield Road, NG1 3FS. It is a five minute walk from The Victoria Centre (black cross).

I have always been amazed by the range of texts on offer. From classic literature to study guides, biographies to rare collectors items, and annuals to comic books, you will be sure to find what you are looking for. Indeed, as an English teacher and freelance writer, I have found the shop to be invaluable over the years.

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You will find an extensive range of texts on offer at the shop.

Opening hours are: 11am to 5pm from Monday to Saturday. However, the bookshop sometimes hosts special events such as poetry readings and talks. For more information why not click the links below.

Visit the website at: jermyandwesterman

Regular updates and news can be found at: Facebook Jermy and Westerman

Telephone number: 0115 947 4522

Musee de la Magie – Illusion and Intrigue in the Heart of Paris…

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If you are planning a trip to Paris soon, why not pay a visit to the Musée de la Magie? It truly is one of La Ville Lumière’s hidden gems, and I was very fortunate to pass many a magical moment there when I lived in Paris.

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Located on Rue St Paul in the fashionable Marais, the museum boasts a magic school, theater and shop.

The French contribution to the art of prestidigitation has been considerable. Robert Houdin (1805 – 1871) is said to be the ‘father of modern magic’ and famously performed an impressive illusion to quell insurrection during French rule in Algeria. Indeed, it was most interesting to see this very effect resurrected on ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ recently. The Hungarian-American magician Ehrich Weiss was so inspired by the French master that he took his name, becoming none other than the great Harry Houdini!

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A veritable Alladin’s cave of magic and mystery. Step into an amazing world beneath the streets of old Paris…
Located at 11 Rue Saint Paul in the  bohemian 4th arrondissement, the museum provides an enjoyable and unique experience. Even those with just a passing interest in magic will find much to amuse and enthrall. Visitors can either participate in a guided tour of the museum or peruse the extensive array of memorabilia at their leisure. A first class performance of legerdemain then follows in the theater – provided by one of the exceptional resident magicians. Both young (and not-so-young) spectators will be treated to classic illusions, card manipulation and sleight-of-hand delivered with inimitable wit, skill and Gaulish charm.
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The red cross marks the area where the museum is located – just a stone’s throw from Notre Dame Cathedral on the right bank.
The museum also boasts a well stocked magic shop, which vends hand made effects and novelties, as well as a magic school for those inclined to study and learn more. I have personally always found the resident magicians and staff at the Musee de la Magie to be extremely courteous, enthusiastic and helpful whenever I have had the pleasure to pay a visit.
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The 14th arrondissement is a vibrant area on the right bank.
 Opening hours are: Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday from 2pm to 7pm. However, the theater is normally accessible during local school and public holidays too. Visit the website for more details: www.museedelamagie.com. Current tariffs for entry are: adults – 10 Euros, and children – 8 Euros. It is well worth a visit if you happen to be in the area.
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The stunning Cathedral of Notre Dame is close by. Why not pop into the museum next time you visit Paris?
Are you planning a special occasion in the future and require magic for your event? Visit David Fox’s website at: www.magician-midlands.co.uk or phone/text him: 07946 686 258.