Hurley linked to Harry Potter role

Movie bosses are pursuing Elizabeth Hurley to play a wicked witch in forthcoming sequel Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.

The 39-year-old British beauty is being lined up to play evil Bellatrix Lestrange, a member of Potter nemesis Voldemort's gang, in the fifth film of the popular wizard series.

A source said: "The producers have tried to keep details of the cast under wraps but they have always wanted someone beautiful and mystical to play Bellatrix and they reckon Liz can pull it off."

Before Harry Potter And The Order Of The Phoenix hits screens audiences will first be treated to fourth film Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, due for release in November.