Mind-blowing skill with a 'Topit'

THE Topit is a device worn by the magician that allowed them to make objects – cards, coins, even tennis balls – vanish suddenly.

Though simple in concept, it takes skill and hours of practice to make the trick look natural.

The origins of the Topit exist among 19th century pickpockets and thieves, who used a primitive form of the device called the "Poachers Pouch".

Magician Nick Lewin described witnessing the trick being performed by Pat Page when he worked at Davenport's Magic Store in London.

"Pat would stand behind that counter nonchalantly vanish item after item, each one more impossible than the last one.

"At some point in his demonstration, after a particularly spectacular disappearance, Pat would casually show you that his 'Topit' was empty and totally blow your mind."