IN scenes more reminiscent of a London premire than St Peter's Street on a Wednesday afternoon, more than 1,200 Harry Potter fans queued for up to two hours to catch a glimpse of author J.K. Rowling.

The woman behind the most popular wizard in history was met with a film star's welcome when her limousine eventually pulled up outside Hammicks Bookshop a little before 5pm.

The author was besieged by adoring fans, some in wizard dress, desperate to meet Harry's creator on the last stop of her Hogwarts Express tour.

Miss Rowling signed copies of her fourth book - Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire - for 400 youngsters who had been invited to the event through Hammicks Book Mark scheme.

Hammicks spokesman Mike Greer said: 'It was a very successful event and one of the best signing's we've had to date. Miss Rowling was totally bowled over by the welcome she got.'

Despite having only an hour at the store the writer made sure that her army of fans were not disappointed.

Mr Greer said: 'She has a special affection for children and a lot of time for her readers because it was their nomination for the Smarties book award that got her where she is.'

Mr Greer also praised city centre manager Melvyn Teare and local police for helping the event to run smoothly.

Mr Teare said: 'The queue was more than 200 yards long and stretched right around to the Alban Arena. But with a constant supply of refreshments and a magician on hand to keep children entertained it all moved along pretty quickly.'