STORMTROOPERS will march into Marlow to kick off proceedings at an annual Christmas tradition, as Father Christmas hands over the reins to the intergalactic henchmen.

The Star Wars soldiers and other characters from galaxies far, far away will be patrolling the streets during Late Night Shopping on Thursday, December 4.

With the latest in the blockbuster franchise being currently filmed a few miles away at Pinewood Studios, Darth Vader’s valets have been invited along to take part in the fun, organised by the Marlow Chamber of Commerce.

The warring stars will open proceedings during a rare night off from dark side duties – with rumours already circulating about an appearance from the dark lord himself.

Organiser Jo Braybrooke believes the force is strong with this year’s event, after a stormtrooper from charity group Joker Squad paraded around the park last weekend to publicise the annual shopping night.

She said: "We were looking for something topical and a little bit different.

“They are a charity group with lots of fantastic costumes and it fits in with what we are trying to do with the evening. We’ve still got Father Christmas of course, and it should be great fun.

“Judging by everybody’s faces yesterday (Sunday) the kids are going to love it. The police patrol came round about three times, they couldn’t believe their eyes!”

The High Street will be closed to traffic from 3.30pm until 10 on December 4, with stalls taking over the road to sell a range of products and Christmas presents.

Choirs from the town’s primary schools will be accompanied by members of the Great Marlow School musicians for carol singing.