Two are pupils and one is a financial administrator by day - but by night their box of tricks transforms them into a trio of magicians.

Now they are to enter a prestigious competition which could see them crowned champions of the north.

Steve Gore, 31, Ross Risdon, 15, and Lauren Stringwell, 13, will enter the Northern Magic Circle's annual competition in Ilkley, over Easter weekend.

The competition, part of the Northern Magic Circle's annual convention, will be held at the Kings Hall and Craiglands Hotel.

Mr Gore, of Dalecroft Rise, Allerton, who works as a financial administrator at Greens Health and Fitness, Shipley, has previously performed close-up magic at the International Brotherhood of Magicians' convention, where he came third.

"The most difficult trick I perform is called 'The Reformation' where a card is chosen and signed by a volunteer and I then tear it up into four pieces and restore it back together piece by piece in front of their eyes," he said.

Ross, of Rookes Avenue, Wibsey, is a student at Dixons City Technology College and a member of the Bradford Magic Circle and the Northern Magic Circle.

He said: "I became involved in magic when I was about five and my grandad used to do basic tricks to me, such as pulling coins out of my ear.

"He said he would teach me when I was older and when I was put forward for an audition at the Northern and Bradford Magic Circles, I got accepted by both."

Lauren, of Owlcotes Garth, Pudsey, is a member of Bradford Northern Juniors.

The 13-year-old, who attends St Mary's school in Menston, said: "When I've passed my exams, I'm hoping to join the police force and then continue with my magic on a part-time basis, possibly for charity."

Five independent judges will adjudicate the event.

Ticket prices and times for the events on both days can be obtained from tournament spokesman John Pye on (01200) 441507.