MP Glyn Davies pulls story of magic trick out of the bag
Montgomeryshire MP Glyn Davies might not have a magic wand to solve all the country's problems – but he can pull a rabbit out of a hat when he has to.
The politician has spoken of his career as an amateur magician after fellow MP Penny Mordaunt was criticised for agreeing to take part in the ITV hit diving show Splash! and it was also revealed that she was once a magician's assistant.
Mr Davies said: "I should admit that I began a career as a magician myself.
"I trained with Bill Tombs from Berriew, a member of the Magic Circle.
"My show was around 30 minutes. It was when I was in my late 20s and a member of Welshpool Rugby Club.
"Things usually went well but I do remember one particular performance which did not go so well.
"Phil Bowen, one of the second row forwards at Welshpool, agreed to help me out.
"The trick involved me appearing to pour a jug of hot water down his trousers using a trick funnel.
"The idea was that I would then pump his arm and the water would run out of his trouser leg.
"But I knew there was something wrong when Phil screamed in pain. It was most unsuitable for a kids party but the best audience response ever.
"The event was Welshpool Rugby Club's Christmas kids' party.
"Understandably he refused to accept my reassurances that the trick would work properly next time.
"I haven't done any tricks for years now although at the time I was often asked to do parties and shows.
"I can absolutely say there is no pressure or stress in the House of Commons compared with standing in front of an audience of about 60 people trying to do a magic show for 30 minutes."
