FAMILIES enjoyed a magical Christmas extravaganza in Stratton with a spellbinding Harry Potter theme.

Crowds of Muggles sampled Butterbeers and Polyjuice Potions at Grange Bar, AKA the Leaky Cauldron, posed for in full wizard robes with Dobby the house-elf, and browsed a craft fair that would put Hogsmeade to shame.

Along with all the wonders of the wizarding world, there were the classic Christmas attractions, including carols from children’s choirs, visits from two reindeer who delighted youngsters and adults alike, plus Santa giving out gifts in his grotto.

Sarah King and her excited three-year-old Bradley and four-year-old Aaron had a great time.

She said: “It’s absolutely fantastic that the parish council organises this for the children.

“We’ve lived in Stratton for a couple of years and I think it’s a really amazing area to live in.

“People are so friendly and kind, the education is top-notch. I’m so glad I moved here.

“We loved this event, the children really liked seeing Santa and getting picture books. They asked him to get them dinosaur toys for Christmas.

“They were so happy to see the reindeer again after meeting them last year.”

The fantastic beasts Blitzen and Sven were brought to Grange Leisure by Gary Emery of the Little Zoo charity.

He said: “They’re very sentimental, warm and loyal animals. They like making new friends.

“Blitzen is a rescue from Norway and Sven was born in the UK, they’re very popular with the children. Going to events like this helps sustain the charity and enable us to do our rescue work and educational visits to schools.”

All the profits from the day went to the council chairman’s charity, Swindon Young Carers.

Johanna Edwards from Stratton St Margaret Parish Council came up with the theme.

She said: “I love Harry Potter, so I thought it would be good to do something different for this year’s extravaganza. Who doesn’t love a bit of magic at Christmas?

“It’s a really nice project that’s brought the community together, it’s been hard work but good fun and the staff enjoyed dressing up.”

Tina Blackler and Tracy Webber of Walcot bakery Bake-O-Delicious were one of several stallholders selling

Tracy said: “It’s been lovely hearing the carols and seeing the children line up to see Santa, I love the theme, and it’s been really busy.”