Parents' Association secretary Samantha Robinson said she was "too choked to speak" when the package of books arrived from Ms Rowling, confirming the writer's support of the campaign to save Antiville Primary.

At the end of the fundraiser on Thursday, Mrs Robinson described herself as "over the moon".

"I've never met Mr Esdale but I would love to give him a big hug," she said.

"His was the winning bid on £1,750 at the end of the night but he rang back at about five past nine and said he would round it up to £2,000. That's generosity you don't always get these days."

Mr Esdale, a collector of books and artworks, bought the collection as an investment for his children, Laurie, seven, and Amy, 13.

"I heard about the school's plight and decided to make a bid," said the businessman, whose wife, Rosemary, is from the Magheramourne area of Larne. "I like Harry Potter but it's the children who are fans. They have read the books."

While the Rowling contribution was undoubtedly the main attraction, other lots, including car and passenger ferry crossing tickets, paintings, and television show tickets, bumped the final total up to £2,477.

The money will be used to fund trips for pupils and to buy books and other resources badly needed at the school.