After the environmental consequences came to light, it seems that fans of Harry Potter will no longer be able to leave socks in the “grave” of dobby on Freshwater West Beach, in wales (via Washington Post ).
The place has a “tomb” in honor of the iconic character of the franchise, after the recordings of the elf’s death in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1. That’s why visitors, mostly Potterheads, tend to come to the place and leave socks – a symbol of Dobby’s freedom.
Dobby’s Memorial at Freshwater West #Pembrokeshire #Harry Potter #Dobby https://t.co/zGmZY94wsV pic.twitter.com/pF5yVQfTdH
— PEMBROKESHIRE we really LOVE IT (@pembsweloveit) October 12, 2019
However, after more than a decade, Welsh authorities have drawn attention to the environmental risks of the action. According to the institution National Trust items such as socks, trinkets and paint chips can enter the marine environment and the food chain, putting wildlife at risk.
For this reason, in the last week, a authorities asked fans not to leave socks and other objects that could put the beach ecosystem at risk:
“Based on the results of the consultation, the memorial to Dobby will remain in Freshwater West in the immediate term for people to enjoy. The Trust is asking visitors to take photos only when visiting the memorial to help protect the wider landscape.”
The decision came after a consultation, lasting eight months, with the participation of more than 5,000 people.
