A MAGICIAN who entertains customers at work with his tricks has been named as finalist in McDonald’s UK Employee of the Year award.

In his spare time Stephen Knight from the Redcar branch hosts magic shows at schools, weddings and birthday parties while performing for diners at the fast-food restaurant in his role as hospitality ambassador and helping to train other employees.

Starting his career in March last year as a part-time crew member to fit around his studies Mr Knight took on a full-time role after he graduated from college. To reach the final four, he beat off competition from 100,000 employees from across the UK.

Mr Knight said: “Working at McDonald’s is always rewarding, challenging and enjoyable. I really believe if you maintain a positive attitude then no task is too difficult then we can all achieve something great.”

Operations Manager James Thompson said: “Stephen’s light-hearted and vivacious nature shines through at work while maintaining a very respectful and professional attitude to his management team and McDonald’s.

“ Stephen’s ability to juggle his work and busy social schedule is almost as impressive as his magical talents.”

She added: “Stephen has a huge amount of credibility amongst his peers and the management team. He is a genuinely nice person, confident and respectful within the role that he plays.”