THERE was magic afoot at The Hive in Worcester as dozens of excited youngsters gathered in their finest wizarding garb for the Harry Potter Book Night.

On Thursday evening 55 children and 35 adults, many in dressed as their favourite Hogwarts characters, came together to enjoy a host of fun magic-themed activities.

Designed to promote reading among children and families, the night was themed on JK Rowling's second book: Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.

Janine Downes, library service manager at The Hive, said: "Harry Potter was there, Professor Snape, we had a Dumbledore, we had Crookshanks - Hermione's cat. We had a really good night.

"I think the main aim is about promoting reading and having a bit of fun along the way.

"It is about getting children and families to engage with books. It helps encourage usage of the library."

This was the second Harry Potter Book Night run at The Hive, with the first year proving it as a popular event.

On arrival, the Sorting Hat decided which Hogwarts house each youngster would be in to compete for points across the evening.

After competing in wizard duels, table top Quidditch, a treasure hunt, riddles and wand making the house with the most points was crowned winner.

"It was a really successful night," said Ms Downes, who transformed herself into Hagrid for the night.

"Harry Potter is really popular and there is lots of great characters. This year really built on the first year and the children got stuck in and the parents too."

The next interactive event at The Hive will be a science-themed night on Thursday, March 17.

For more information visit thehiveworcester.org