All set for three-day Netley Marsh Steam and Craft Show (From This is Hampshire)

All set for three-day Netley Marsh Steam and Craft Show

7:20am Thursday 23rd July 2009 in

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A HUGE bird that stars in the Harry Potter films is poised to work his magic at one of Hampshire’s biggest summer spectaculars.

The three-day Netley Marsh Steam and Craft Show, which begins tomorrow, will feature appearances by a European eagle owl called Billy.

The feathered film star portrays Erold, one of birds owned by Harry’s friend Ron Weasley.

Children visiting the show will be able to have their photograph taken with Billy, who has appeared in all the Harry Potter movies with the exception of the latest release, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.

The 14-year-old creature will be accompanied by his handler, Mick Warrior, from Havant, and family friend Graham Titheridge.

Mr Titheridge said: “Billy is absolutely brilliant. He’s as soft as they come and you can do anything with him.”

Parachute team Other attractions will include a sheepdog demonstration by Bob Hogg, a motorbike and cycle trials show by members of the Waterside Junior Motorcycle Club, and displays by Wessex Bird of Prey Rescue.

The famous Red Devils parachute team will be dropping in on Saturday and Sunday.

Show secretary Tony Greenham said: “The craft marquee is bigger than ever, with more than 100 tables, and there’s a good selection of trade stands, plus evening music.”

First held in 1971, the show attracts steam enthusiasts from across the south and raises thousands of pounds for local charities.

The event was hit by torrential rain in 2007 and had to be abandoned after two days but made a spectacular comeback last year.

Mr Greenham said: “The 2008 show was very successful. We were well supported and made a profit, which enabled us to stabilise this year’s event.

“About 12,000 people paid on the gate and we’re hoping to see even more spectators this year.”