(Pictures by Alan Carmichael)
Harry Potter Star Matthew Lewis cast a magic spell over Ilkley, transforming the Spa town into a Winter Wonderland.
Crowds of star-struck teenagers screamed and cheered as the Hollywood star, who played Neville Longbottom in the blockbuster film, emerged from the shadows of Christchurch on The Grove to switch on the Christmas Lights.
The actor, who was born in Horsforth, agreed to replace veteran DJ and broadcaster Sir Jimmy Saville, who died last month, aged 84.
He paid tribute to Sir Jimmy who he described as ‘an absolute legend,’ encouraging the crowd to give ‘three cheers for Jimmy’ before switching on the lights.
He said: “I must admit I was hesitant to take on the responsibility of switching on the lights, because of the very large boots he has left to fill.
“I met him a few times and was amazed by the vitality he had. His enthusiasm for philanthropy was so inspirational, he did so much for so many people and I just know he would have loved to have been here tonight to turn on the Christmas lights in Ilkley.
“But I am also sure he wouldn’t have wanted it to have turned into a sombre affair so before I turn on the lights, I thought we could do three cheers for Jimmy.”
Hoards of Harry Potter fans turned out on the cold November evening to witness the official start to the festival season in the town.
The event, which is held every year, had the usual support from families and young children, keen to see the lights sparkle over The Grove.
But as news of Matthew’s appearance spread, crowds of teenagers added a new dimension to the crowds as they gathered on The Grove to greet him.
Following the event, Matthew spent about twenty minutes chatting with locals and councillors back inside the church, before being escorted into a police van which was waiting outside.
Screaming fans surged forward waving their cameras and shouting his name as they tried to get a glimpse of the star.
Prior to the event, Matthew tweeted to thousands of fans letting them know of his plans.
It said: “This is not a rant. I’m very high-spirited today. Oh yes. Big day. I’ll be in Ilkley for the light switch on and then Four Nations final..!”
He later posted another tweet thanking locals for their support saying: ”Thanks everyone for coming down. Went off a bit didn’t it. Cheers to West Yorkshire Police for getting us outta there too. Ha! Mad.”
Matthew later revealed he is about to start filming in Leeds on a new BBC drama called The Syndicate, – a series about five supermarket workers who win the lottery.
He also hinted at a new mystery film in the pipeline which he could begin work on as early as next spring.
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