How did you become a white witch?
I was taught when I was very young by my grandmother — the knowledge of healing herbs and rituals has been passed down through our family. I have written several books on witchcraft and appeared on radio and television, including a regular spot with Richard and Judy in the 1990s when I gave advice on personal and relationship problems.
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Any Valentine tips for those looking for love?
Choose a white candle, tie a white ribbon around it, then write your name on a piece of paper and use it to light the candle flame. Burn it tonight and tomorrow night, working towards the full moon on February 13.
Have you ever used magic to procure a man?
I once had a boyfriend who was a male model. I was a bit insecure and used to burn a love candle to keep him coming back to me. Then I realised that if I had to keep doing that, there was something missing. So I stopped burning the candles and it went off the boil.
How about spicing up long-term relationships?
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Use the colour red, which helps us exude more energy, and tactile fabrics such as silk, which release our body’s endorphins. And find all sorts of wondrous things to do with honey, especially local honey. It weaves a spell in every kind of way — quite amazing stuff.
How do you formulate a spell?
I find a ritual which deals at a symbolic level with reforming patterns of behaviour. If someone has had a break-up we would gather a series of items that make them think of the person they’re trying to get over. Tie a pretty ribbon around them and bury them under a growing tree — you’re letting the relationship grow into something quite different.
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Most notable success?
A Scottish aristocrat came to me who had a curse on his family: there was always an untimely death for the holder of the title. We planted a rowan tree — which has always been thought to ward off evil spirits. Fifteen years on, he’s still alive and well.
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You must encounter a lot of sceptics . . .
Yes, but you develop a good sense of humour. If someone wants to talk to me about brooms, I just say: “That’s fine, I’ve parked mine outside in the car park.”
How do you feel about the media’s portrayal of witches?
Prior to Harry Potter it was very difficult to find a witch that wasn’t evil. So I had a great fondness for Bewitched — Samantha was a very positive character. No, I can’t wiggle my nose like them — what a shame, because it would be such delicious theatre!
Bewitched is out to buy and rent on DVD. Titania Hardie’s Love Potions is available at WHSmith.