Abracadabra! After a two year absence due to the COVID-19 pandemic, entertainer Magic Russ has returned to the Children’s Ward at Walsall Manor Hospital to entertain young patients.

He showed his wonderful balloon models and card and magic tricks and was just the tonic for youngsters on ward 21.

Two-year-old Yuvraj from Willenhall is a big spiderman fan and Magic Russ created a spiderman balloon and a bonus space alien astronaut balloon for him.

Yuvraj’s mum, Jasveer said: “I think it’s brilliant, Yuvraj was so down the first few nights but seeing this has been really good and perked him up.”

Ten-year-old Harry from Walsall was surprised with a colourful motorbike balloon and some card and magic tricks which he said he ‘really enjoyed’.

Harry’s mum, Georgina said: “I think this has been really fun for the kids. Staying in hospital there is not much to do so it’s really nice that Magic Russ has come in to entertain them.”

Twelve-year-old Alfie from Aldridge also had a space alien astronaut balloon and was shown some card tricks which he described as ‘really cool’.

Alfie’s mum and dad, Emma and Jason said: “We think it’s fantastic, it’s been a tough few hours but seeing Magic Russ has been a good welcome distraction and has really lifted us all.”

Play Specialist Sam Deane added: “It’s fab to have him back. It brings back some normality for us and Magic Russ has definitely brought smiles to us all.”

Magic Russ said: “I choose to come visit children in hospital as it feels like the best job in the world to be able to put smiles on their faces. In hospital I face two challenges; children are poorly and they are a range of ages so I need something to engage everyone which is why I do balloon models and card/magic tricks as that way there is something for everyone to enjoy.”

He added: “It’s been difficult to visit due to the pandemic especially as I have been coming to Walsall Manor Hospital’s Paediatric Ward for 18 years but it’s so lovely to be back and this is also the first hospital that has invited me back after two years so it’s really special!”