TRIBUTES were paid last night to a magician who was found dead at the bottom of a North-East railway viaduct.

Kevin Reay, 45, originally from Hartlepool, was rated as one of the country's best magical talents and won praise from Middlesbrough-born TV star Paul Daniels.

Mr Reay is believed to have fallen 150ft to his death from the bridge at Crimdon Dene, County Durham, a few miles from Hartlepool.

British Transport Police are investigating the tragedy but do not believe Mr Reay's death is suspicious.

It is believed Mr Reay, who lived in north London, was visiting relatives in Hartlepool.

The magician was on the books of Nic Picot Entertainment where a spokeswoman said: "He was very kind, very talented and was willing to share his knowledge with others. He was very popular amongst magicians.

"He was one of the best card manipulators in Britain and specialised in close-up tricks.

"He had been on Paul Daniels' show and been to France and done a TV advert for the postal service, which was shown quite a lot.''

Mr Reay began his careerwhen he was 15 after his grandfather taught him some tricks, which he practised on his mother, Evelyn Stokes.

In 1995 he featured in two editions of the BBC magic show Paul Daniels' Secrets, after which Mr Daniels said: "I have never seen anyone better than him.

"Kevin is one of the most-skilled close-up magical performers I have ever seen.''

Mr Reay first met the veteran magician in 1986 when he helped him organise his tricks.

Another magician who admired Mr Reay's talent was Tim Saiet, who said in an interview two years ago: "He shows me things and I feel like a beginner.''

Anyone who saw Mr Reay's fall, which happened at 12.30pm on Tuesday, is asked to call police on 0800 405040.

North Durham Coroner Andrew Tweddle has opened and adjourned the inquest into the tragedy. A full hearing will be held at a later date.

Mr Reay's family declined to comment.