A memorial site for beloved Harry Potter character Dobby the house elf has been given a reprieve by the National Trust in Wales. Thousands of fans of the wizarding world franchise flock to the resting place of the iconic character every year.
However, the increased visitor numbers to the spot above Freshwater West beach in Pembrokeshire – where his on-screen death was filmed - prompted National Trust to consider removing the memorial grave.
Following a consultation period, fans of the JK Rowling series were delighted to hear that the memorial – which features a pile of stones and rocks and a cross – will be staying put for the time being.
A spokesman said in quotes reported by the Daily Star: “Based on the consultation results the memorial to Dobby will remain at Freshwater West in the immediate term for people to enjoy.
“The trust is asking visitors to only take photos (when visiting) - items like socks, trinkets, and paint chips from painted pebbles could enter the marine environment and food chain and put wildlife at risk.
“Freshwater West is a much-loved coastal site and over time, its beauty, expansive beach, good surf and Hollywood filming credentials have seen it become increasingly popular.
"We have to balance the popularity of the site with impacts on the sensitive nature of the beach and wider environment, and pressure on the facilities and surrounding roads.”
The location of the memorial is a legally protected conservation area which is home to a host of wildlife, including lizards, orchids and rare ground-nesting birds, while the surrounding area is home to large grey seals, harbour porpoise and some of the largest populations of seabirds in the world.
Fans of the site took to social media to celebrate. One wrote: “Took the kids there just a couple of weeks ago.
“Harmless pile of stones and a good way to get them to walk a bit and visit somewhere. Leave it, and open a cafe.”
And another posted: “It’s lovely and it’s not doing any harm.
“Removing it is pointless, people will still visit there, leave Dobby rest in peace!”
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