Harry Potter has worked its magic on the box office, with the last film in the series smashing records in its opening weekend.

Since opening on Friday, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2, took £23 million in the UK and Ireland.

It eclipsed the previous £18 million record held by the last Potter film, Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows - Part 1, released last year.

The film, starring Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint and Emma Watson, took 168 million dollars (£104 million) in the US and Canada from Friday to Sunday, beating the record previously held by 2008's Batman blockbuster The Dark Knight.

So far, it has taken an estimated 476 million dollars (£296 million) globally.

Josh Berger, president and managing director of Warner Bros Entertainment UK and Ireland, said: "After a decade of Harry Potter films, the final film is truly a cultural phenomenon.

"We are thrilled with this astounding response and we would like to thank all Harry Potter fans across the UK and Ireland.

"These incredible results are a testament to the incredible achievement of the filmmakers, cast, and, of course, JK. Rowling, and will ensure the film series a place in history for years to come."

Directed by David Yates, the film's cast also includes Helena Bonham Carter, Robbie Coltrane, Ralph Fiennes, Michael Gambon and John Hurt.