Potter premiere is pure magic

THE magic of Harry Potter cast a spell on London last night as the stars turned out for the European premiere of the third movie.

Hundreds of fans thronged Leicester Square in central London for the latest in the series telling the tale of the young Hogwarts wizard, played by Daniel Radcliffe, with many dressing up as their favourite character.

American student Amy Sanmann, 20, from Oklahoma said she was especially pleased to be at the premiere in London.

“I’ve read all the books and it’s really exciting,” she said.

“This was the real premiere for me. This is where the books are set so it’s more real and special to be here.”

Ms Sanmann said she was looking forward to seeing how the characters had grown and matured.

She said that Ron Weasley was her favourite character “because he’s always there and a good friend”.

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban is the third movie in the hit children’s series penned by author J K Rowling.

The third film sees Michael Gambon take over the role of Professor Dumbledore, following the death of Limerick actor Richard Harris.

The film is on nationwide release in Ireland today.

Harry Potter has proved a global hit and netted a massive £435 million for Rowling.