I have fond memories of afternoons in Bill Thompson's House of Secrets tucked away in an upstairs location in Blackpool, England.

It must have been at least 15 years since I was there. Does anyone know if Bill is still there?

Does anyone else have good memories of visiting the shop. I remember performers such as Russ Stevens and Mark Raffles frequently visiting and Bill showing us many of Ken Brooke's packet tricks.

Hi Andy,

Yes, Bill is still there six days a week and for the record Mark and I are still regulars!

Best,
Russ

It was a 'must-do' visit to the House Of Secrets to get a new trick whenever I was in Blackpool. I didn't know the owners name, but I remember he had an infectious laugh and seemed a really nice bloke. The day was always finished off with a visit to the Pleasure Beach Casino for a great magical evening - thank you Russ - many happy memories there!

Many many years earlier, I used to visit a magic shop in Manchester. I think it was the only proper magic shop the city has ever had, on a main shopping street - Bridge Street -in the city centre, and was full of dark wood panels and glass cabinets full of wonders, and run by the most terrifying old lady who reminded me of Mrs Meers from Thoroughly Modern Millie. The whole place, including the owner, were so atmospheric.

I was so sad to visit one day to find that she had died and the shop had been sold. It was a sandwich shop last time I was in town

Is it still there? That's great. Must check this out when I go to Blackpool this year.