RESIDENTS of a market town may have spotted Hagrid at the weekend as he made his way to the opening of a magical new shop.

The occasion was the grand opening of The Cupboard Under The Stair’s, Appleby’s newest retail addition which is set to enchant residents and visitors alike with its licensed Harry Potter merchandise and locally sourced items.

For the opening on Sunday, customers were treated to broomstick training, a fancy dress competition and the appearance of Hagrid, alongside Appleby’s mayor Gareth Hayes.

The giant’s visit caused quite a stir and even Eden police officers came to meet the Hogwarts gamekeeper.

Owner Jennifer Gibbons is delighted with the welcome the shop has received.

“It was amazing,” she said.

“I worried myself sick about it, but it turned out to be a really brilliant day.

“Everybody in the town has been brilliant, other businesses in the town, the town council, wants to see everybody do well and bring business into the town.

“The customers have all really liked it, I’ve not had a negative comment yet.

“Hagrid was outside the shop for four hours and it created a great atmosphere.”

Ms Gibbons, who was previously a retail manager for more than 28-years, came up with the idea for the store during lockdown after being inspired by the town’s new status of official honorary Quidditch town, in recognition for the town’s own Quidditch team, the Appleby Arrows, being included in Quidditch Through The Ages.

Her two sons David and Angus are also big fans of the series.

Customers can expect official Harry Potter merchandise from the store, as well as unique and local sourced gift ideas.

“We have lots of the Harry Potter merchandise but we also have lots of locally produced items, fudge, wax melts, bath bombs all along the wizarding theme and I’ve also heard from someone who can do wood turned wands,” said Ms Gibbons.