A FORMER member of the Parachute Regiment Band has won top television talent show Britain's Got Talent after a tearjerking magic trick.

Richard Jones, 25, claimed first place after his patriotic performance honouring fellow serviceman and magician Fergus Anckorn who entertained troops when he was held captive during the Second World War.

Magic mind-reader Richard, from South Woodham Ferrers, has bagged a £250,000 windfall as well as a spot on the bill of the Royal Variety Show.

Richard is now a member of the Household Cavalry.