14th May 2011


Arathorn Wentworth, proprietor of Wentworth Menageries, passed away late yesterday afternoon at the sprightly age of 81 years old. The wizard had been called in by the Department for the Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures, to consult on the welfare of a domesticated Pegasus being re-introduced to the wilderness. 

"It was unexpected," commented Vincent Fournier, a dragon handler who had come to observe what should have been a commonplace procedure, "We hadn't been told enough about the creature's history."

A violent outburst by the Pegasus had lead to the trampling of two department trainees, a handler, and the wizard Wentworth himself. His death has been described by witnesses as 'near-instantaneous'.

Balfour Spectre, Head of of Beast Division, has released an official statement indicating that an intra-departmental trial will take place pertaining to the Pegasus. "We have to be sympathetic about animals who have been abused in the past," he informed the press, "but all measures will be taken to ensure she is no longer a threat to the sanctuary's populace."

Arathorn Wentworth was well-known for his work as a philanthropist and for his position on the Hogwarts Board of Governors. He is survived by six daughters, several grandchildren and great grandchildren. His grandson, Xavier Tawse, has been named heir to Arathorn's fortune and menageries.