The Nash family's handmade Besom brooms in their yard.

A 300-year-old family-run broomstick business is set to take off worldwide after their brooms were chosen to appear in the fourth Harry Potter film.

The Nash family in Hampshire, are bracing themselves for global success once their Besom brooms feature in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.

Buyers for the movie who spotted the firm on the internet have snapped up more than 80 of their sticks.

The traditional business was managed by Arthur Nash, 65, who died this year.

His wife, Sue Nash, 59, keeps his dream alive with the help of their son and daughter.

A delighted Sue told reporters: "I am absolutely thrilled.

"Arthur would have been so pleased - he was not very impressed with the brooms they used in the other (Harry Potter) films.

"He wanted to keep the business alive for his grandparents' sake because they did not get any recognition.

"He received the Royal Warrant in 1999 and this is just the icing on the cake."

Arthur cut birch for his father but did not make his first broom until he was 18. At his peak, he was able to produce up to 100 brooms a day.

But the demand for birch brooms died out in the 60s - the firm is busy in autumn and spring and has a steady stream of orders throughout each year.

Out of the blue, Mrs Nash received a telephone call from Tamazin Simmonds - the assistant buyer for the film - enquiring about the handmade hazel and birch brooms.

She found their long-standing business, which is based in the yard of Arthur and Sue's home, while searching on the internet.

Son-in-law Andy said: "It is a bit bewildering at the moment. We are waiting to see what happens after the film is out. 
 
(Agencies)