DARTH Vader actor Dave Prowse will be in Chippenham on Saturday, July 11 with Star Wars co-star Pam Rose to promote the return of the Chippenham Sci-Fi day in October.

The two actors, who both featured in the original trilogy, will be at the Emery Gate Shopping Centre from 10am to 4pm along with a supporting cast of storm troopers, and Chippenham's very own Jedi Bears.

The promotional event will give visitors the chance to meet the two stars, hear about their careers and get that special picture or autograph, for which there will be a small charge.

Chippenham's second Sci Fi event will take place on October 24 and is expected to attract an array of celebrity guests, displays, traders and costumes.

Chippenham Sci-Fi, which last year attracted more than 1,500 people to the Neeld Hall, is organised by local town councillor, Martin Coates, and Bath-based photographer Anthony Milner and all profits are donated to charity.

Mr Coates said: “We are so thankful for the support we had last year. We just had to do it all again and have been working hard to give the town another exciting day. We are thrilled that Emery Gate have come on board to support us this year and it’s exactly the sort of event which will help to bring local people and visitors to our town.”

Local schools will also be invited to get involved by taking part in various competitions in the run-up to October's main event while sponsorship opportunities are available for local businesses.

Tickets will be on sale soon and more details can be found at www.chippenhamscifi.com.