Jay Palmer began his performing career assisting Houdini and Leon in the 1920s. His real name was William J “Willie” Burns and he was born in Nashville, Tennessee, 1 Nov 1899. Later with his wife and partner, Doreen, from Liverpool, they toured the USA, UK and Europe with their Magic Kettle Act. In the act Doreen, known as “Lydy ’Awkins”, provided the comedy element. Arthur recalls them performing at The Tivoli Theatre in Hull, Doreen wore a long velvet dress with workman’s boots. If liquid was spilt, she would use her dress to mop the stage. In 1950 and 1951 they won the Comedy Prize at FISM. Jay died in 1970.