A MAGICIAN from the region has been entertaining Syrian refugee children in the Middle East.

Phil Nelson, or Magic Phil, has been performing charity shows for youngsters from the war-torn country in Amman, Jordan.

The 24-year-old, from Chester-le-Street, County Durham, who is now based in Dubai, said: “I saw these children that have nothing.

“They live in a city of small tin huts. It was shocking, but it was amazing to be able to make them smile. I got back to our hotel after the shows and nearly broke down.”

Mr Nelson visited the Azraq refugee camp to perform for Syrian refugees as well as 150 orphans in Amman.

His show was aimed at youngsters aged from two into their teens, who were also given lunch and gifts as part of the day out.

He said: “The children were beautiful, but they’re needy and many have been traumatised. They demanded attention and hugs, it was heartbreaking.

“I am just emotionally and physically drained, but it was the trip of a lifetime, completely worth every second.”

Mr Nelson, who has lived in Dubai for two-and-a-half years, said he is far from fluent in Arabic, but knows enough to get by, adding: “I know the key words for my show, and I do perform it in Arabic in Dubai too. They understand, and have a blast.”

Mr Nelson, who became a professional magician at the age of 17, has promised to do it again next year and give profits from his merchandise to the relief efforts.

He added: “I had been helping with collections for refugees, for winter clothes, and it occurred to me that there’s so much more I can do.

“Compared to humanitarian efforts it’s small, but if I can make the kids smile for a short time, it’s still worth it.”