The ‘grave’ of Harry Potter’s fictional elf character Dobby can stay on a secluded beach - after it was given a last minute reprieve.

Thousands of tourists flock to Freshwater West Beach in Wales to leave tributes including socks to the mischievous but loyal character. The mock grave sits above the Pembrokeshire beach where Dobby’s death was filmed. But concerns about high visitor numbers and pollution led to a survey on its possible relocation.

The National Trust had considered removing the tribute - constructed from hundreds of painted pebbles, stones and socks, but the Trust has ruled Dobby’s grave can remain in place on the protected beach for the time being.

It became the subject of a consultation due to the high number of visitors flocking to Freshwater West Beach to see the ‘grave’.

The sheer quantity of painted socks and pebbles left in tribute by fans was of particular concern due to the potential harm to local wildlife.

National Trust Wales, which ran the consultation and manages the beach, said: “Items like socks, trinkets, and paint chips from painted pebbles could enter the marine environment and food chain putting wildlife at risk.

“But, based on the consultation results, the memorial to Dobby will remain at Freshwater West in the immediate term for people to enjoy.”

The National trust has, however, asked people to protect the area and not leave any more items at the memorial.

A consultation survey asked questions ranging in subjects from parking, toilet facilities and traffic.

Harry Potter Superfan and influencer, Victoria Maclean, said: “I’m absolutely relieved by the National Trust’s decision to keep this memorial in place. It brings so much joy to people across the world.”

The beach lies in a conservation area home to rare ground-nesting-birds, lizards, orchids and large grey seals.

Socks have been a long-popular tribute by fans because of their significance in the Harry Potter storyline but the sheer number of them left on the beach became a focal point of the consultation.

In the franchise, house elves would be freed from servitude if they were given clothes.

In the second instalment of the series, the Chamber of Secrets, Harry Potter ensures Dobby is given a sock by his owners.