Star Wars fan sells toy collection after job loss

A man who changed his name to Luke Skywalker has sold his collection of Star Wars memorabilia after losing his job.

The sale included signed items from the films, life-sized models of the cast, creatures and droids from the films.

"I need to survive. This stuff is just in a warehouse just collecting dust all the time," Mr Skywalker said.

The auction, at Wessex Auction Rooms in Chippenham, was described as "extremely unique".

The collection sold included full-size replicas of the famous droids R2D2 and C3PO, a battle droid from the prequel trilogy, lightsabers, blasters and a variety of Storm Trooper helmets.

Items from other films and franchises, including Terminator and Star Trek, were also sold.

The price paid for the items was not disclosed.

Mr Skywalker said: "My van blew up last week and I need a new one, so I thought I've still got lots.

"I've got the memories and I've got the photos, you know?"

Some of the collection included rare replica helmets, Mr Skywalker said.

"They only released 200 each in the world," he said.

Tim Weeks, director and auctioneer at Wessex Auction Rooms and Bargain Hunt expert, said: "We had a packed room and more than 500 live online bidders from around the world.

"It's great as an auctioneer to see the Star Wars is so popular and alive again."

Mr Skywalker said he was "very happy" with the outcome.

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