WITCHCRAFT and wizardry are in store for children travelling on the Severn Valley Railway this week.

The Hogwarts Express has rolled into town especially for the half-term break and will be thrilling children on the Kidderminster to Bridgnorth line.

The bright red engine from the Harry Potter books has already travelled 1,200 miles around Britain to promote the release of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, due in cinemas on Friday, November 16.

The former BR Southern Region West Country class locomotive is traditionally Brunswick Green but was painted red last year to promote the launch of the fourth Harry Potter book in the series written by JK Rowling.

"There can't be anyone in the country who doesn't know about Harry Potter and the Hogwart's Express," said SVR marketing manager, John Leach.

He said the engine's arrival would add some "welcome impetus" to the half-term break.

The Hogwart's Express will be taking a break from carrying Harry and his chums to wizard school and will be running every day until this Sunday, October 28.