A GALAXY of characters were in Fordingbridge for the Star Wars Weekender to help raise money for the town's new skatepark.

The event, which took place over the weekend of December 9 and 10, raised £700 towards the town's replacement skatepark.

Dave Tree, who runs All The Cool Stuff and organised the event, said: "It is always a great weekend entertaining fans old and new alike. I'd like to thank the local businesses that help support the event, either through advertising or helping facilitate more to the fundraising total, in particular Riverside Kiosk, The Fig Tree, Jessica and Jacksons Solicitors.

"These events are important to the community, not only from a fundraising aspect, but also proven to provide a serious boost to many local businesses, particularly within accommodation, food and drink services, we drew visitors from as far as Missouri in the US, Lossiemouth in Scotland and Gateshead."

On the Saturday, the event saw the return of the Rebel Legion and UK Garrison Star Wars costuming characters.

There was also a rare chance to meet some special guests including one of Hollywood's leading concept artists and sculptors for creature effects, Martin Rezard, who has created creatures and monsters for Star Wars, Harry Potter, Game Of Thrones, Dr Who and many more, and actor Paul Kasey.

The weekend was supported with many interactive games and activities including a Star Wars carnival, retro video gaming and virtual reality experience, plus demonstrations from the new Fortitude of Empires board game.

The event, as well as other events provided by All The Cool Stuff such as the craft and food markets, has led to the store being recognised at the New Forest Business Partnership's Brilliance in Business Awards 2017/18 and received the Hampshire County Council Award for Contribution to the New Forest Community. Dave was presented with the award on November 29.

Dave said: "It is a real honor to be shortlisted, but even more so to win. So much can be achieved with a little enthusiasm, and enthusiasm is infectious. If this inspires others in building stronger communities, everyone benefits."

Designs have been put forward for the replacement skatepark. The shortlisted designs will then be presented to Fordingbridge Town Council before a final decision is made.