Crossword Genius

Blimey, a funny magician! (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

cooper

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'funny magician' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both people as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps you can see a link between them that I can't see?

'blimey a' is the wordplay.
'blimey' becomes 'coo' (both are expressions of surprise).
'a' becomes 'per' (eg 'one a day' means 'one per day').
'coo'+'per'='COOPER'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for cooper that I've seen before include "Cask-maker" , "supplier of stiffeners?" , "Craftsman" , "Barrel-maker" , "Cask/barrel maker" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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