HARRY Potter star Matthew Lewis ensured 200 children’s holiday of a lifetime got off to a magic start as the annual Dreamflight jet embarked on a sunshine break in Florida.
The actor, who played Hogwarts regular Neville Longbottom in the fantasy franchise, was joined by television presenter Konnie Huq as the excited passengers boarded the specially chartered British Airways charity flight.
The youngsters were hand-picked to join the ten-day holiday by doctors and medical experts, having battled with serious illness, disability and trauma.
They will visit a host of attractions, including SeaWorld, Disney World and Universal Studios.
Lewis, 26, said: “All these kids have been looking forward to this for a really long time. It just takes me back to when I was a kid and went over to Orlando and saw some amazing things. Some of these kids are so buzzing, and it just warms your heart so much to see their faces.”
The young passengers are accompanied by nearly 100 doctors, nurses and physiotherapists throughout the trip.
Emily Gray, 11, from Leith, said: “I didn’t think this was real. I didn’t think this would happen. I am most looking forward to Harry Potter World. I’ve read all the books and seen all the movies."
“I really like Neville Longbottom. I’ve seen him here today and he looks so much different.”
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