HARRY POTTER fans had a magical experience yesterday as a star from the world of Hogwarts steamed into the North-East.

Young and old followers of the boy wizard strained to see as the magnificent Hogwarts Express slowly rolled onto the platform.

The locomotive, best known for carrying Harry and his classmates to Hogwarts School in the hit films, is visiting the Locomotion Museum, in Shildon, county Durham.

In JK Rowling’s stories, it travels from Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross station, but yesterday’s journey was much shorter.

The 80-year-old engine steamed up the East Coast Main Line from its home at the National Railway Museum, in York.

Despite the threat of rain, fans were out in force to grab pictures as the train was slowly moved into place.

Museum manager George Muirhead said: “In recent years, the locomotive has gained a new lease of life.

“It has featured in the Harry Potter films, seen by millions worldwide.”

It is visiting Shildon as part of the museum’s Wizards Weekend, and visitors will be able to ride in carriages behind it for about half a mile.

People will also be able to have photographs taken on the engine’s footplate.

The Hogwarts Express will be at the museum all weekend and at future dates until it returns to York in July.

Entry to the museum is free and youngsters can make a wand and spellbook as part of the weekend.

The train was named the Olton Hall when it was built in the Thirties, before it became better known as the Hogwarts Express. A Great Western Railway steam locomotive, it spent many years working before it was picked for stardom.

The Hogwarts Express can be viewed at the museum between 10am and 5pm.

Tickets to ride on the train are £2 for adults, £1 for concessions and free for underfives.

The museum can be contacted on 01388-777999.