Sci-fi film fans will be seeing Star Wars before their eyes when they visit Weston-super-Mare’s Grand Pier next month.

The big clue as to who they may be having a close encounter with comes through the date of the event – May the fourth (be with you!).

One of cinema’s greatest villains will be bringing the dark side to the iconic seafront attraction on Saturday 4 May.

Darth Vader will be flanked by two Stormtroopers as they spearhead an Intergalactic Takeover of the town’s top tourist attraction.

May the fourth has been adopted by fans in recent years as the perfect date on which to celebrate all that they love about the Star Wars film franchise.

For the second year running the Grand Pier is getting in on the act, too, with some of the most infamous – and recognisable – characters from the movies taking to the boardwalk.

The costumed characters will be looming large between 11am and 3pm, and film fans will be able to have their photos taken with them for a souvenir that will be out of this world.

While the event itself is free, there will be a collection on the day in aid of Brain Tumour Research. Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer.

Tim Moyle, General Manager of the Grand Pier, said:

“This is going to be a big year for Star Wars fans with the release of the next movie in the franchise in December.

“May the fourth is clearly the appropriate date to start building some anticipation for that film, and at the same time hopefully raise some money for a very good cause.

“I hope we’ll get to see lots of little Jedi Knights arrive dressed as their favourite sci-fi characters on the day. Anyone who does arrive in costume will be rewarded with a little a treat.”

To find out more about the wide range of attractions, events and entertainments at the Grand Pier all year round, visit www.grandpier.co.uk