The "flying" Ford Anglia car used by child wizard Harry Potter and his chums to escape numerous close scrapes has vanished from its slot in a West Country film studio.

The blue Ford Anglia 7990 TD used in the Potter films had been parked under tarpaulin at South West Film Studios in St Agnes, Cornwall, when it was stolen between Wednesday and Thursday.

"For those who have not seen the Harry Potter films this is the car that flies in the movie and is very well known," a police spokesman for Devon and Cornwall said.

It is thought the car could not have been driven, leading police to think it must have been spirited away, or more likely, "towed or full lifted from the scene".

"It was not in good condition and could not have been driven away under its own steam," added the spokesman.

"The thieves may not have known its connection with the films, and just thought it was a classic car, or it may have been a Harry Potter freak."

The feisty Anglia often helped Harry and his friend Ron Weasley out of trouble, despite being driven into a tree on one occasion.

The car, owned by Ron’s father – a fan of Muggles inventions – also helped Harry and Ron escape a forest of giant spiders.

Anyone who may have seen the vehicle or who may have information about this distinctive vehicle is asked to contact the police on 08452 777 444 or Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.

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