CHILDREN had a magic time as they visited Durham’s Clayport Library to enjoy the spellbinding words of Harry Potter.

Youngsters from Nettlesworth Primary School, in Chester-le-Street, and library staff dressed up as witches and warlocks, wrote spells and took part in a colouring competition to mark the second annual Harry Potter event last week.

Linda Dobson, Durham County Council’s principal library manager, said: “It was fantastic to have so many young Harry Potter fans come to the library to share their love of the series of books with us.

“It turned out to be a spellbinding morning of fun.”

There are seven books in the Harry Potter series and all are available at most County Durham libraries.

She said: “At our libraries you can just come along and find out more about Dumbledore, Hedwig and all of the other wondrous characters who have encouraged millions of young people worldwide to pick up a book.”

The fun continues at Clayport Library over half term with a free storytelling session from Darlington author and illustrator Liz Million.

The creator of the much loved children’s books Not So Silly Sausage and Elephant Rides Again will be at the library on Tuesday, February 16, between 2pm and 3.30pm.

The session is free, but places are on a first come first served basis.