From Humble Beginnings..
The Team
Bill and Sally-Anne’s idea for a day of Wizarding in 2018 grew into a huge multi-year project. What became the Wirksworth Wizarding Day started as a simple idea to promote the town, promote local charities and good causes and allow Wizarding fans to come and express their love for their favourite fantasy universe.
However, the more Bill and Sally-Anne talked to their friends and local organisations, the more enthusiasm, delight and ideas for the event they received. You could say that things snowballed somewhat.
Nobody was ready for the many thousands of visitors that their quiet corner of the peak district reveived. Wirksworth turned into a very magical place on an ordinary day in late October 2018.
Estimates put attendance at over 7,000 people - primarily families - taking part in the many activities and games arranged by local charities, charitable organisations and businesses. Most parts of the town took part in one way or another with residents getting into the spirit by wearing magical costumes.
Since the first event in 2018, further events have been held in 2019, 2022, 2023, 2024 with the next one happening in October, 2025.
Wirksworth Wizarding Day was a massive success.
The Wizarding Day is a big event for Wirksworth but is planned and operated by a small team of dedicated volunteers.
The Chief Enchanteers
Bill Bevan - Supreme Mugwump - ideas, inspiration, perspiration, contacts, general head of the gang
Sally-Anne Swindell - Magical Stewardess of Commerce - traders relations, good cheer, more contacts
Jo Metcalf - Mistress of the Scrolls - social media manager, marketing, planning, generally the organised one
Stuart Combellack - Magister of Means & Messengers - website, fundraising, volunteer support
Jill Hodgkinson - Warden of the Willing Wands - volunteer manager
Lucy Shorter - Spell-fluencer - social media and marketing assistant
Amanda Combellack - Tea & Tattle Witch - volunteer support
Sarah Swindell - Custodian of Curious Crafts - magical maker’s cavern organiser
The Conjuring Crew
Leading up to the event and on the day there is a team of up to 25 volunteers who help visitors access the activities, provide information and help ensure the day runs smoothly. Wirksworth Wizarding Day would not be possible without the valuable roles that these dedicated witches and wizards play.
Wizard Works pop-up shop, 2018