MAGICIAN and much-loved entertainer Paul Daniels has terminal cancer, it has been announced.

Daniels is well known in Dorset having performed in a host of shows and pantomimes over the past four decades, including at the Pavilion summer show in Weymouth.

A statement from his publicist released earlier today said: "We can confirm that one of our greatest magicians and entertainers of all times, Paul Daniels, has sadly been diagnosed with an incurable brain tumour."

The TV star has brought many of his shows to theatres across Dorset including in recent years his 'First Farewell Tour', 'An Audience with Paul Daniels' and 'Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow'.

During his visits to the area he has often taken part in community events and fundraisers as a celebrity guest.

Daniels, whose real name is Newton Edward Daniels, was born in Middlesbrough in 1938.

The variety veteran's interest in magic began at the age of 11 when he read a book called How To Entertain At Parties, and he developed his magic skills in working men's clubs.

In 1969, he was offered a summer season at Newquay and decided to become a full-time performer.

The following year, Daniels made his TV debut on talent series Opportunity Knocks, and came second.

He was seen by TV producer Johnnie Hamp, who gave him a regular slot on The Wheeltappers And Shunters Social Club, a variety show on ITV hosted by the late Bernard Manning.

In 1979, Daniels began his long run on BBC One's The Paul Daniels Magic Show, which lasted until 1994.

In addition to performing magic, Daniels also hosted popular quiz shows for the BBC including Every Second Counts, Odd One Out and Wipeout. He also narrated the children's TV show Wizbit.

Daniels married his first wife, Jacqueline, in 1960. They have three sons together.

He wed second wife Debbie McGee in 1988. McGee was Daniels' on-stage assistant from the start of his run on the BBC.

Daniels is well known for his "You'll like this ... not a lot, but you'll like it" catchphrase.

He said he first came up with the line at a club in Bradford as a way to deal with a heckler.

In later years, Daniels and McGee participated in various TV shows including Channel 5's The Farm, ITV's The X Factor: Battle Of The Stars and Channel 4's Celebrity Wife Swap, in which Daniels tried living with Vanessa Feltz.

Daniels also took part in Strictly Come Dancing in 2010.

He was the first magician from outside the US to receive, in 1983, the prestigious Magician of the Year award from the Hollywood Academy of Magical Arts.

BBC broadcaster Tony Blackburn has led the messages of goodwill to magician Daniels.

In a message posted on Twitter, the radio DJ wrote: "Such sad news about Paul Daniels who is a lovely and talented man. my thoughts are with you Debbie."

Paul Chuckle, best known as one half of children's entertainers the Chuckle Brothers, tweeted: "@ThePaulDaniels all our love to you mate !!!!!!!"

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