THE magic of Christmas will become a breath-taking reality thanks to a local magician.

Steven Ashcroft, who became the youngest president of the Middlesbrough Circle of Magicians two years ago, will entertain queues waiting to see Santa at Kirkleatham Old Hall Museum.

The 28-year-old, a precision engineer, will arrive with his tricks for a day of activities at the Redcar museum.

The programme, timed to coincide with the switch-on of the town's Christmas lights on Sunday, includes a carol concert by the choir of St Peter's Church, Redcar, and a Christmas fair in the museum caf.

Admission to Santa's grotto will be free from 10.30am until 4pm.