Pottermania broke out in the Island when, for one weekend only, King William’s College was transformed into Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
The two-day Harry Potter-themed* event was a fundraiser organised by Junior Achievement Isle of Man which attracted hundreds of wannabe wizards and witches who arrived by ‘Hogwarts Express’ from Douglas to attend classes ranging from potion-making to divination, herbology to sorting hats and also had the opportunity to get up close - but not too close - to a couple of owls and a boa constrictor.
Junior Achievement’s chief executive Sue Cook, aka Dolores Umbridge, said: ‘Feedback has been overwhelming. People had a really great time – as did all of us at Junior Achievement – with many entering into the spirit of things, releasing their inner wizard or witch and dressing up in some very convincing outfits. King William’s College served as a fantastic setting and we’re so grateful to them, and to all the volunteers and “the Hogwarts teaching staff” who introduced children into the fantastical world of potions, mandrakes and much more to help make the event so credible. What made the weekend extra special was that thanks to Isle of Man Steam Railway the excitement kicked in right from the start in Douglas, when people boarded the Hogwarts Express to Ballasalla. In short, it was a magical day for the Muggles of the Isle of Man.’
*Warner Bros. Entertainment and J.K. Rowling were not responsible for the event but kindly granted Junior Achievement Isle of Man permission to use the HARRY POTTER® trade mark and other materials.
Photo courtesy Andrew Barton
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