ALL ABOARD!

HAPPY Birthday Harry Potter!

The world’s most enduringly famous wizard was born on July 31, 1980 (which makes him 42 today!) – a birthday he shares with author JK Rowling (she turns 57).

Twenty-five years, and 450 million global copies later, Harry Potter and the Hogwarts Express stepped out of retirement to enjoy a birthday celebration.

For those who want to enjoy a ride on a Hogwarts-era steam train, “Wesley” will run out of Inchanga Station today and again next Sunday. Visit www.umgenisteamrailway.com to book. Umgeni Steam Railway is part of the 1000 Hills Community Tourism Organisation. Durban’s very own Harry Potter, Mxolisi Mavimbela (left), with his broom, wand and novels, took a nostalgic “ride” on the Hogwarts Express in Kloof.

Mavimbela, a Denis Hurley Centre Street Lit homeless book vendor encourages fans to join him in celebrating the 25th anniversary of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, and Harry Potter’s birthday today.