Southampton shops give away toys for Star Wars Day

No, the city wasn’t under attack from the galactic empire, instead businesses across the city celebrated Star Wars Day, which is observed annually by fans on May 4.

The Lego store in Westquay, Smyths Toys Superstores in Hedge End, and The Entertainer in Eastleigh all took part in free giveaways that saw hundreds of Star Wars enthusiasts pick-up some unique figures.

A Lego Baby Yoda was available to be built and taken away free of charge at the Lego store, with The Entertainer similarly allowing customers to build their own U-wing for free to take home.

Smyths gave away figures of the Millennium Falcon, with only the most hardened of Star Wars fans making the trip to collect all three figures.

READ MORE: Grade II listed building in Lymington set to be restaurant

One such fan was John Borg, who’s been a Star Wars fan since he can remember.

Speaking to the Echo, he said: “I read about the giveaways on social media and thought it would be a great idea to see if I could pick up all three figures.

“I’ve never really been into Lego before, so this was the first time I took the time to build the figures, but it was really fun. I don’t think there are many people who would have managed to get all three.”

Having got his hands on the U-wing and Millennium Falcon yesterday, John was determined to complete his collection with a Baby Yoda figure today, queueing with another hundred or so people outside the Lego store in Westquay this morning.

He said: “I tried to get Baby Yoda yesterday, but the store had given them all away at that point, a staff member said 300 had gone in the space of an hour, so I had to come back today.

“I was second in line and there was a good atmosphere.

“I’m a huge Star Wars fan; I’ve grown up with the films and even met Anthony Daniels who played C3PO at a convention in 2013.

“I’m really pleased to have been able to collect these figures, and ‘May the fourth’ be with you.”