Harry Potter star set to open centre

A star of the Harry Potter films and a popular TV series will be on hand to officially open a new heritage centre dedicated to the Battle of Shrewsbury next month.

Robert Hardy - best known for his role as Siegfried Farnon in TV's All Creatures Great and Small - will be appearing on July 19 as part of an open day at the Battlefield 1403 visitor centre.

The 82-year-old, who also featured in the Harry Potter films as Minister for Magic Cornelius Fudge, is a leading authority on the subject of longbows and has also written a book about the weapon.

Joyce Jagger, from the centre, said he was instrumental in bringing about the recognition of Shrewsbury's Battlefield as a battle site. He has also been supportive to the family throughout the development.

She said his visit was part of a special open weekend at the visitor centre, cafe and farm shop to coincide with the anniversary of the battle.

Mrs Jagger said: "We are delighted that Robert Hardy is able to officially open Battlefield 1403. His interest and support in the project has been hugely appreciated and we look forward to welcoming him on July 19."

Visit www.battlefield1403.com