Harry Potter TV screening blasted by church

The British TV Christmas Day screening of Harry Potter And The Philosopher’s Stone has been blasted by church leaders.

Religious figures have condemned the BBC network for showing the 2001 movie over the festive season as they believe JK Rowling's wizardry tale is sending out the wrong message.

A Church of England spokesperson says: "The BBC has picked the least suitable time to show it.

"Harry Potter portrays witchcraft and black magic in a fictional way but it is capitalising on the supernatural."

A BBC spokesperson comments: "Harry Potter is one of the most popular family movies in recent years."