Competition search for Harry Potter look-alike

A chain of opticians is holding a Harry Potter look-alike competition for children amid claims the schoolboy wizard has made wearing glasses "cool".

With the huge popularity of J K Rowling's four books and the number one film, more and more children are happy to wear glasses like their young hero, according to one store boss.

The young wizard is known by children around the world for his trademark round lenses and Harry has now become a role model for short-sighted youngsters.

The Specsavers chain is running a look-alike competition to celebrate the playground popularity that glasses now enjoy.

John Ludlow, director of the chain's store in Blyth, Northumberland, said: "The success of the Harry Potter books and the huge popularity of the film The Philosopher's Stone has led to more and more youngsters asking for specs and it seemed appropriate to launch the hunt for our very own look-alike.

"Our staff are very experienced at working with children and can convince any apprehensive youngsters that spectacles can enhance their looks, but it's great that youngster spec-wearers now have a role model when it comes to choosing glasses.

Would-be wizards can enter the competition by sending a photograph with their age, name and address and phone number to participating Specsavers stores across the country.