IF you fancy learning a trick or two in a new job then a Preston illusionist has just the thing.

Sarah Collins, of Brydeck Avenue, Penwortham, has been a professional illusionist for three years, but will need a magical new assistant this summer when she tours holiday camps.

The 26-year-old former Butlin's Redcoat has been interested in magic and illusions since she was just ten years old, but won't be able to perform her act without an assistant.

Sarah, one of the country's few female illusionists, said: "I always do big tricks. I cut people in half and stick a bloke in a box and put spears through him!"

Life-long magic fan Sarah, started teaching herself the secrets of illusions from an early age.

She said: "I bought a magic book from Woolworths, found a magic shop in Preston and got some books from the library. It all started there. Then I went to magic school in Manchester at 15.

"When I was 18 I became a Butlin's Redcoat for eight years and became the entertainment manager. Now I've been an illusionist for three years."

But Sarah admits that being successful in the male-dominated world of illusions has been difficult.

She said: "It has been tough. It's a male job, so you have to push yourself a little harder than anyone else. There is no main female illusionist in this country. Probably the best one around is Melinda in the USA.

"I went to Las Vegas and met her a few years ago. I got to see her show and went on stage with her and helped make a Lamborghini vanish! My main aim is to be like her."

Now Sarah, who runs Kryptic Illusions, is looking for an assistant to help out in a series of shows of her own over the summer.

Sarah said: "The contract is for this summer, working the holiday resorts like Haven and Park Resorts.

"Basically they would be going in all the boxes! Anyone would be okay, as long as they are really looking forward to doing something a little bit different. The only restriction is that they can't be taller than 5ft 8ins tall as they wouldn't physically fit in some of the boxes!"

Sarah's next show is at Penwortham Sports and Social Club, Leyland Road, on Sunday, February 17, for members only.

For information, or to apply, call Sarah on 07786 671792.