Potter fans rush for new book

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, the final book in a series of seven, has been pre-ordered by more than 1,000 people at a West Bromwich store. WH Smith has been receiving over 30 orders a week for the new book: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

Alison Hale, duty manager at the store in High Street, said: "There is a lot of interest in the title from both adults and children.

"As a group there is a lot of demand for the new book. We are just taking pre-orders of the book at the moment and they will be sold at a first-come first-served basis on the day of sale."

The store will be opening at one minute past midnight on July 21.

Meanwhile, more than 700 customers have pre-ordered at Waterstones, in Park Street, Walsall.

WH Smith in Aldridge has reported hundreds of pre-orders with the town centre's branch also picking up huge numbers.

WH Smith in Wolverhampton's Mander Centre has taken more than 600 orders.

Bev Lockley, senior sales assistant, said: "The books are always very popular and there is a massive demand for them."

At WH Smith in Vicar Street, Kidderminster, staff have already received orders for 300 copies of the latest adventure. Staff will be opening the shop at midnight.

The book doesn't go on sale until July 21.

Many stores are selling the book at half the recommended retail price, at just £8.99, with some even throwing in free gifts such as books, mugs or posters.

Author JK Rowling has revealed two major characters will be killed – but has remained tight-lipped over who will die.

The author is now richer than the Queen thanks to her creation.