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The incomparable Hans Moretti has died and another brilliant magic star has been extinguished.

Hans and his wife Helga moved to West Germany in 1940 and trained there, learning the circus skills they would use to become one of the world’s greatest illusion acts. Respected worldwide, the Morettis were recognised in 1976 at International Federation of Magic Societies (FISM) (Fédération Internationale des Sociétés Magiques) where their Sword Box illusion won first prize in the Grand Illusion category.

During the 1970s and 1980s, Hans Moretti rose to prominence in the UK when he and Helga made several guest appearances on The Paul Daniels Magic Show on BBC1.

In 1979 a new act featuring their now famous Russian Roulette routine won first prize again at the FISM World Championship in Brussels, this time in the Mentalism category.

Hans Moretti’s contribution to the art of magic was extraordinary. Other illusions he invented include the Crossbow Escape Illusion and a Paper Tree Suspension (based on Robert-Houdin’s classic suspension ethéréenne). He also held 18 entries in the Guinness Book of Records including the October 1988 record for the Burning Rope Escape (based on Alan Alan’s original escape).

Hans Moretti was recognised with promotion to 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. In 1984 The Academy of Magical Arts presented Hans Moretti with a Performing Fellowship for his contribution to the art of illusion.

But for all these achievements, the most amazing thing about Hans Moretti was his personality, charm and sense of fun. His didn’t just avoid the razor sharp swords… he emerged from the box somehow changed into complete clown costume and full make up with a live chicken in his hands and another perched on his head!

Remembering that will always make me smile… and that is the real and enduring magic of Hans Moretti.