WANDS at the ready — potential Hogwarts students are invited to a magical insight to the world of Harry Potter.

Muggles, wizards, and witches alike are invited to board the Hogwarts Express themed steam train, as it heads out of Bury Bolton Street station's platform 9¾ next month.

Starting the adventure, students will begin the two-hour return journey between Bury and Rawtenstall as they battle to retrieve a stolen artefact from sinister sorcerers.

Along the way, they will learn the skills needed to defeat the evil wand-bearers through wizard themed activities with some of the wackiest wizards.

Fans of the books and films are encouraged to dress in their finest wizard attire, so robes, wands and dementors are expected.

East Lancashire Railway’s Wizard Academy event starts on Thursday, February 15, with additional dates on April 5, May 31, July 26, August 16 and 30 and finally October 25.

The event is recommended for families with children aged five or above.

Tickets cost £13 for adults and £8.50 for children, kids under two go free.

Tickets plus more information are available at: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk/events-activities/2018/2/wizard-academy.aspx.