VILLAINS from outer space invaded Winchester last weekend.
But luckily for the city’s safety, it was part of Specsavers celebrations after 25 years in the city.
A stormtrooper and bounty hunter from Star Wars patrolled outside the High Street shop, posing for pictures with delighted passers-by.
The shop was also raising money for Royal Hampshire County Hospital’s Magic Wand Appeal to revamp the children’s ward.
Jenny Cook, optical assistant who organised the event, said: “We thought we should have a big party to celebrate 25 years in the city and we thought the Magic Wand Appeal was a good cause to help, so we have been raising money all week.
“As we carry a Star Wars range for children, which is one of our most popular lines, we wanted to promote that too.”
Specsavers also ran a variety of competitions for adults and children throughout the day and provided free eye-tests.
The Mayor and Mayoress of Winchester, Ernie and Barbara Jeffs, also attended to cut the birthday cake, with the stormtrooper serving as their personal security detail.
The characters were provided by UK Garrison, one of the world’s largest Star Wars costuming clubs which has raised more than £1m for children’s charities.
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