Pulling a rabbit out of a hat, or tricks of a similar ilk, may have dazzled generations of children.

But the future of live magic could be under threat, thanks to the rise of the YouTube magician.

The rising popularity of online videos is leading to a loss of key skills which could damage the very existence of live magic in years to come, a leading Magic Circle member has warned.

Jamie Raven, who belongs to the prestigious inner magic circle, said amateur magicians are increasingly learning their trade behind the camera, perfecting one trick on film to post for "likes".

But while YouTube and social media may spark an interest in magic, he warned essential skills such as interacting with real people to control or misdirect their attention are being lost.

If the current obsession for online profile continues, he said, in generations to come "there will be no magic shows, there will be no live interaction".