WANNABE wizards have been left disappointed by the cancellation of a Harry Potter book night in Winchester.

Grown-up fans of the series were due to dress up for a panel discussion at the Discovery Centre, chaired by children's author Damian Kelleher.

For £3 entry, guests could ask questions, discuss their favourite moments and bring along their own wands for "spell casting".

But publisher Bloomsbury has pulled the plug on the event, scheduled for Wednesday.

Jonny Duddle, who illustrated the covers of the latest reprint, was due to appear alongside represntatives from fansites Pottermore and Mugglenet.

The cancellation has not affected a children's Potter party set to take place on Thursday.

Hermione, Hagrid and Professor McGonagall will welcome children to Waterstones, in Winchester High Street, for potions, readings, a treasure hunt and even a spot of Quidditch.

There will be prizes for the best costume and the winners of a game of Quidditch, the broom-mounted sport played by Harry in the series.

'Potions' and Butterbeer cupcakes will be on offer throughout the event, which runs from 4.30pm to 7pm.

The Chronicle has asked Bloomsbury why the adults' event was cancelled.