Some soon-to-be Hogwarts fifth years received supply lists and disappointment yesterday when it became clear no prefects for the coming school year had yet been appointed.

A representative from the Board of Governors for Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry explained the omission: "To serve as prefect, head boy or girl, even quidditch captain, is a true honour. The idea is that these people should be celebrated just as the school celebrates its first year students, at the Welcome Feast. As such, the recipients of these positions will be announced on the first of September, in front of their peers."

In spite of this official statement, an anonymous source at the school has revealed the badges were tampered with by Peeves, the castle's resident poltergeist, and were unsafe for distribution.