A FORMER X-Factor winner and a celebrity magician are combining their talents in an attempt to spread a bit of joy in lockdown.

Matt Cardle, who grew up near Halstead, and Magic Circle magician Michael J Fitch will be hosting a magic and music event via Zoom.

Matt, 37, and Michael, 42, have known each other for more than ten years and regularly support each other at their respective shows, but had never worked together.

The idea came about thanks to Michael’s daughter Scarlett, 13, loving Matt’s music.

Michael, who lives in Marks Tey, said: “His music has been the sound of lockdown in my home. One night my daughter had fallen asleep clutching a letter to Matt. I sent him a video and we got chatting.”

Michael offered to do an evening of magic for Matt and his partner Amber and in return Matt performed a concert from his lounge for the Fitch family.

This sparked an idea to combine their talents.

Magic - Michael J Fitch and Matt Cardle are combining their talents to host an event over Zoom Pictures: STEVE BRADING

Magic - Michael J Fitch and Matt Cardle are combining their talents to host an event over Zoom Pictures: STEVE BRADING

Matt, who won the TV talent show The X-Factor back in 2010, said: “It is the beginning of a partnership. It is one of those things where you think ‘Why weren’t we doing this years ago’.

“But everything happens at the right time. Lockdown or not, something would have come about.

“We have got this glimmer of hope and it felt like the time to do something.

“You won’t have to have your camera on but there will be interaction a bit like Saturday Night Takeaway.”

steve brading.05-11-13 mon.Matt Cardle on stage.

Matt Cardle on stage

The evening will feature Matt singing some of his best known tracks alongside tricks and illusions from Michael.

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The audience will be able to interact throughout the show, being involved in the magic and getting to make song requests and ask Matt questions.

Mr Fitch added: “Everyone will have the best seats in the house. It is an event to look forward to. People can dress up and feel like they have had a night out.”

“We are really looking forward to it. We haven’t got to go anywhere and people from round the world can watch.”

The pair are now busy rehearsing and hope to take the event to a live stage once lockdown restrictions end.

The event on Friday, March 12, starts at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £20 plus a booking fee.

Visit www.eventbrite.co.uk/ and search Matt Cardle-Michael J Fitch.