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We were delighted to learn that The Magic Circle has honoured Alan Alan with Membership of The Inner Magic Circle (Professional), this is the Society’s highest degree and has been awarded to fewer than 20 people since The Magic Circle was founded in 1905.

Alan’s standing and influence in the world of magic was previously recognised in 2006 when he received the coveted Maskelyne award for services to British magic.

To understand why this quietly spoken elder statesman of magic continues to inspire magicians, a little history lesson seems important.

In the late 19th century, Harry Houdini made headlines and stunned crowds by hanging upside down suspended by a rope as he escaped from a straightjacket.

Sixty years later, a young british performer upped the ante and added another level of risk by having the rope set alight as he was hoisted above the ground, giving him a very short time in which to escape. That fearless showman was Alan Alan.

Alan first made his name when he was buried alive in Surrey in 1949.

The stunt went badly wrong and nearly cost him his life but the resultant publicity, front page headlines and features in the news cinemas, made him a household name and he was soon headlining around the world with his spectacular act.

After his retirement from performing, Alan ran a magic business in Southampton Row called Alan Alan’s Magic Spot and began to mentor and encourage younger performers to develop their skills. Many of us owe him a huge debt and are now privileged to call him our friend.

Last week, a very few friends got together to surprise Alan with the news of his recent honour and to see Noel Britten present him with his certificate on behalf of The Magic Circle. We felt privileged to be there.