In our History of Mystery spot this year, Joy Spencer will be talking about her parents Ron and Nancy Spencer, known in the world of magic for their 'Minds in Harmony' mentalism act; particularly their two-person telepathy, which was most impressive. Eddie Dawes said of them: 'For much of the twentieth century, the Spencers brought delight and mystery to audiences. It was always a pleasure to find Ron and Nancy on the bill'. Joy will be capturing some of their presentations in her PowerPoint lecture, supplemented with rare DVD recordings, as well as recalling fascinating details of their lives and demonstrating some of their props.

Adrian Sullivan, well-known lecturer and magic dealer from Manchester, is the 'Master of Magic' who makes the impossible possible. Adrian will be lecturing on a wide range of effects and ideas, with free lecture notes, and will have some items for sale at bargain prices.

Ian Fenn, an Associate of the Inner Magic Circle, is a former radio producer and a recognised expert in the field of radio magic. His latest book, 'Magic On The Air', combines Ian's own extensive research with the previously unpublished thoughts of Arthur Setterington. His talk will be complemented by rare images and recordings, helping us to appreciate this unique medium.

Vinny Sagoo, the proprietor of Neo Magic, was a huge hit at last year's Presidential weekend with his absorbing talk on Tenyo products. He makes a welcome return to our convention with a lecture packed with new ideas and effects, as well as the opportunity to purchase Neo Magic products.

We welcome back Geoffrey Newton, who doesn't really need an introduction to NMC members. As editor of the British Ring's monthly journal, Key Ring, Geoffrey was called upon to create effects under many different guises, and he will be performing and explaining some more of those tricks, proving that they really do work and are surprisingly easy to make. We are going to benefit from a wealth of experience in both presenting and inventing tricks from basic principles.

As our Sunday morning memorial lecture, this time honouring the memory of John Tattersall, former NMC President Rick Tynan will be presenting his highly-acclaimed 'Alchemy' lecture, looking at the part played by scientific principles in the creation of magic for entertainment – full of fascinating examples and experiments.

The President of the British Ring traditionally joins us for our convention, and this year we are pleased to welcome Aidan Heritage, who will be taking part in the after-dinner cabaret and presenting a collection of fascinating film clips of master magicians and past memories.

Headlining the gala show this year, and lecturing the following day, will be Dave Loosley. Dave is a multiple award-winning magician and all-round nice guy who has travelled the world for the past 15 years with a unique blend of modern, fun magic and mentalism and an engaging personality.