Harry Potter tour buses being used to ferry NHS staff

Buses usually used by the Warner Bros Harry Potter studio tour are being offered as free public transport for NHS workers battling the coronavirus pandemic.

Wrapped in Potter decals, the buses take tour visitors to and from the Leavesden Studios site in Hertfordshire, where the movies were filmed.

But since the attraction has now been shuttered, coach company Golden Tours is now providing free transport to three NHS sites in the county.

Read more: Fantastic Beasts star teases ‘epic battle scenes’

Paul da Gama from the West Herts Hospitals NHS Trust said: “Our workforce has been depleted due to sickness or self-isolation and so it’s really important that those staff who are well, but have transport issues, can come back.

“Our staff might not be travelling to exotic locations or seeing behind the scenes of a major movie, but they will be making magic happen in their own way!"

He added that the move was a 'wizard idea'.

Owner of Golden Tours Mikesh Palan told the BBC that he was 'delighted' to be able to help out NHS workers, with the buses going to Watford General, St Albans City and Hemel Hempstead hospitals between 6am and 10.30pm every day.

“The priorities of the nation have changed completely as people learn to enjoy days in and not days out,” he said. “But for key workers, staying home is not an option and we're delighted to be able to help by providing a safe and reliable way to get to work and back.”

Latest coronavirus news, updates and advice

Live: Follow all the latest updates from the UK and around the world

Fact-checker: The number of COVID-19 cases in your local area

Explained: Symptoms, latest advice and how it compares to the flu

A spokesperson for Warner Bros. Studios Leavesden added: “We couldn't think of a better way to use the buses at this time. We are delighted to play a part in supporting our local NHS in its time of need.”

Social distancing rules are also in place on the buses to keep workers safe.

It follows news that Potter writer J.K. Rowling suffered 'all symptoms' of COVID-19, but has since made a full recovery.

Posting a video from a doctor at Queens Hospital in London on how to alleviate breathing problems, she told fans: “For last 2 weeks I've had all symptoms of C19 (tho haven't been tested) & did this on doc husband's advice. I'm fully recovered & technique helped a lot.”