Grammar: Multiple Choice - 2023 őszi

The official Wizard of New Zealand has been fired following 23 years of service (0) ______ joking about hitting women. London-born Ian Brackenbury Channell, 88, was paid NZ$16,000 (£8,200) annually (17) ______ 'acts of wizardry and other wizard-like services' to promote Christchurch, New Zealand under a contract signed in 1998. He is believed to have been the world's only state-appointed wizard. Christchurch council said it ended Channell's contract because it wanted to be more modern. But the Wizard himself claimed that he was being 'cancelled' (18) ______ he no longer fitted 'the vibes' of the city, describing himself as a 'provocateur'. In April, he made several offensive remarks about women on a television show. A council spokesperson said Channell had been sent a letter thanking (19) ______ his service and informing him that his contract was terminated. Channell (20) ______ performing acts of magic as entertainment in public spaces in Christchurch after arriving in New Zealand in 1976. When police tried to arrest him, a public protest led (21) ______ a local square being designated a public speaking area. Since then, Channell, dressed in a long cloak and pointy hat, has performed in Christchurch and rain-danced in Australia during droughts. (22) ______ his termination of employment, Channell said he would continue his regular appearances at Christchurch's Arts Centre, chatting to tourists and locals. The centre is hosting an exhibition of his life this month, (23) ______ is supported by the council. When asked (24) ______ curse the council over its decision, he said he preferred giving blessings.