THE Force was strong in Fordingbridge as fans came out to celebrate the wonderful world of Star Wars.

There was a weekend of activities at the Town Hall. The event was organised by local retailer All The Cool Stuff.

Saturday's event was family fun day featuring the Phoenix Command, who showcased their Star Wars themed costumes and props. Familiar faces included Princess Leia, Han Solo and Stormtroopers.

Other special guests include Star Wars artist and illustrator JAKe and inventor/YouTube star James Bruton from XRobots.

The Star Wars fun continued into Sunday with the Farthest From Toy Collectors Fair, with toys from the original releases in the 1970's and 80's. Star Wars artist and illustrator Paul Bateman and comedian Dave Shorter attended the event.

There was also a charity toy auction to raise money for the Piam Brown ward at Southampton General Hospital.

The events raised more than £800 for the cancer ward.

Dave Tree, of All The Cool Stuff in Fordingbridge, said: "The events are a real hit for those that attend and to be able to raise £800 for a childrens cancer ward is just amazing. The money raised makes a difference, especially at this time of year and I cannot thank everyone enough in helping.

"Fordingbridge has a great choice of several small venues to run events, and with Salisbury, Bournemouth and Southampton all nearby it makes an excellent central location to draw crowds to anything that is happening in the town."

All The Cool Stuff runs the event runs three times a year in Fordingbridge, the next one is planned for spring 2017 to tie in with the 40th anniversary of Star Wars.