HARRY Potter fans were wide-eyed with wonder when various species of owls appeared at the Botanic Gardens in Durham.

Bird of prey expert Michael Mann took a barn owl, tawny owl, European eagle owl and harris hawk to the gardens yesterday, to give children the chance to take a closer look at the impressive birds.

The free event attracted a steady turnout, with children keen to catch a glimpse of the owls, a species that has captured young people's imaginations thanks to Harry Potter's snowy owl, Hedwig.

Mr Mann, a former gardener who now organises public displays with his collection of birds of prey and tropical bugs, said: "It's been a really good turnout."