WINCHESTER magician Ben Hart will return to TV screens tonight (May 30) as his performance in ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent live semi-final airs across the country.

The 28-year-old, who grew up in the city and attended Kings’ School then Peter Symonds College, was voted through by all four judges after his audition, leaving Simon Cowell rendered almost speechless.

Simon said: “Unbelievable! That was unbelievable… really… I’m shocked.”

Ben hopes for the support of the local community as he progresses through the rounds, and believes his success so far has been down to the encouragement he received in Hampshire in his formative years, where he participated in local performances and charity events.

He said: “I’m absolutely delighted to have come this far in the competition and to be able to share my magic with so many people.

“It’s been a nerve-wracking experience but I’m loving every second of it. I hope to help people experience that same feeling of astonishment and wonder that has hooked me for so long.

“The most magical thing about BGT for me has been reconnecting with people who have followed my career and expressed their support.”

The magician is now based between London and as his hometown, and hopes all his supporters will see what he has ‘up his sleeve’ for the semi-finals.

His semi-final performance can be seen on ITV tonight, with the show starting at 7.30pm.

The results will be announced at around 9.30pm.

He added: “I hope everyone enjoys what I have planned for Thursday night.

“This time I will leave the big equipment at home and try to create a small intimate moment by performing some close-up magic - my favourite kind!”

Ben is a member of the Inner Magic Circle, and his solo performances have seen him travel around the world, performing at the Royal Albert Hall, Wembley Arena, and to private parties for billionaires, rockstars and Hollywood celebrities.

He has received rave reviews for his sell-out magic shows and performed for two years in the West End as part of the international touring show, Impossible.

When he is not performing, Ben devises magic trick and special effects for the world of theatre.

His clients include the Royal Shakespeare Company, the stage production of The Exorcist, The Old Vic and many others.

Ben has never performed a solo show in Winchester, but has recently announced he will headline the Theatre Royal in Jewry Street on November 17.

Tickets can be purchased by calling the box office or via the theatre’s website.