Harry Potter star Rupert Grint has announced he and partner Georgia Groome are expecting their first child together.

The actor, best known for playing Ron Weasley in the wizarding franchise, shared the news on Friday evening.

Rupert Grint
Rupert Grint is set to become a father for the first time (Tim Ireland/PA)

A representative for the couple said: “Rupert Grint and Georgia Groome are excited to announce they are expecting a baby and would please ask for privacy at this time.”

Grint, 31, and Groome, 28, have been together since 2011.

Grint shot to worldwide fame after starring in Harry Potter And The Philosopher’s Stone in 2001 as Ron, Harry’s loyal but accident-prone best friend.

He played the role in all eight films.

Grint’s TV roles include Sky One comedy Sick Note, crime drama Snatch and Agatha Christie adaption The ABC Murders.

Groome is best known for her roles in 2006 crime drama London To Brighton and 2008 comedy Angus, Thongs And Perfect Snogging.