HUNDREDS of fans turned out for the screening of a blockbuster movie at one of its filming locations.

A crowd packed Durham Cathedral for the screening of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, the first instalment of the multi-billion franchise, which was staged to help launch the ten-day Durham Book Festival.

Durham Cathedral’s ancient cloisters doubled as a film location for Hogwarts in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone back in 2001. Against a snowy backdrop, the cloisters became the snow-covered quadrangle where Harry releases Hedwig the owl from his hands.

Harry and friends returned to Durham’s UNESCO World Heritage Site the following year for the Chamber of Secrets sequel, with the breath-taking building once again providing the setting for Harry, Ron and Hermione being taught how to turn animals into water goblets.

Many of those attending accepted the invitation to “immerse yourself in the story as never before" by wearing Hogwarts-themed fancy dress.

The event was staged as 2017 marks the 20th anniversary of the publication of JK Rowling’s debut novel.

Two further sold-out screenings of the film will take place at the cathedral today.

Durham Book Festival started yesterday and continues until next Sunday, October 15.

Among those appearing at this year’s event are Tony Robinson, Robert Webb, Roddy Doyle, Harriet Harman and Lionel Shriver.

Events take place at venues across the city. For further information, visit durhambookfestival.com