Hundreds of Harry Potter look-alikes gathered in Carmarthen

Nearly 600 youngsters dressed as the young wizard needed to turn-up at Nott Square, Carmarthen, west Wales, on Saturday to write themselves into the record books.

Although more than 700 children in various Potter guises took part in the event, not all wore the full Hogwarts attire needed to qualify for the record under the strict rules laid down by the Guinness Book of World Records.

But organisers have been so encouraged by the interest, they are already planning a festival for next year when they are confident they will finally smash the record.

There has been a huge amount of interest and we are sure we will break the record next year - we will make sure everyone knows what the criteria is Debbie Williams, Carmarthenshire council

"We had more than 700 little children running around in Harry Potter hats and painted faces," said Debbie Williams of Carmarthenshire County Council.

"But unfortunately they weren't all in the full costume which apparently is needed to go for the look-alike record.

"There has been a huge amount of interest and we are sure we will break the record next year - we will make sure everyone knows what the criteria is."

About 200 children turned up in the correct cloak, glasses and magic wand outfit to take part in the parade.

The Harry Potter imitators failed to break the existing record

The record of 588 Harry Potters was set by schoolchildren in England in 2001.

It was one of the many events taking place across Wales to mark the launch of the fifth book in the hugely popular series.

Some shops even held sleep-overs so young fans can be among the first to get their hands on Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.

Earlier this week the Guinness Book of Records said it would not officially recognise Carmarthen's world record attempt but later had a change of heart.

"We didn't know until Thursday whether we could still go ahead with the attempt, but they suddenly changed their minds," said Ms Williams.

The real Harry Potter

"We didn't have time to tell everyone about the costumes, but we will next year," she added.

The bid was part of the Merlin, Magic and Mystery festival taking place in Carmarthen throughout the day.

Later in the day magician Paul Daniels will be performing at Carmarthen's Lyric Theatre as part of the event.

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix has been flying off the shelves since it went on sale at 0001BST on Saturday with many shops opening early.

I love them because it's so mysterious and exciting and the books make you feel like you're there with them Emma Spencer, 10

Waterstones in Wrexham opened its store from midnight to accommodate the expected Potter hysteria.

Young fans from Alexandra Primary School in Wrexham said they could not wait to read the new book.

"I love them because it's so mysterious and exciting and the books make you feel like you're there with them," said 10-year-old Emma Spencer.

"I think Harry's very brave and courageous" she added.