MUGGLES mixed with witches and wizards on the Watercress Line last weekend, as the Wizard Express transported passengers to a world of magic.

The Mid Hants Railway brought back its popular Wizard Weekend event on Saturday and Sunday, boasting a cauldron of Harry Potter-themed activities to celebrate the 20th anniversary of JK Rowling’s literary phenomenon.

Potter fans young and old, many in fancy dress, lined up to watch the Wizard Express steam train pull into Alton station and enjoyed unlimited rides in Hogwarts-style wooden carriages between Four Marks, Ropley and Alresford stations where many bewitching activities awaited.

There were broomstick-making sessions, magic shows and a miniature railway at Ropley, as well as the chance to hold a real-life Hedwig owl and dress up and pose for pictures on the very bridge where Harry received his Hogwarts Express ticket.

At Alresford, fans of the films were also able to meet Gringott’s goblins actors Michael Henry and Brian Wheeler in the carriage where Harry first met Ron and Hermione in the first Potter film – as well as get to grips with creepy crawlies and enter the fancy dress competition.

The Watercress Line will again be running its popular Santa Specials this Christmas, as well as Christmas Leave on December 26 and 27. For more details or to book tickets, visit watercressline.co.uk.