Lightsaber Clinic: Celebrating 30 Years of Star Wars

Star Wars: The Exhibition has come to London to mark the 30th anniversary of the first film's release.

The film opened in just 32 cinemas in the United States on 25 May 1977.

It went on to become a global smash with children across the world re-enacting the adventures of Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Han Solo and Obi-Wan Kenobi.

Many of those at the launch were children of the '70s - now well into their 30s and 40s.

But they still queued up like excited infants to be photographed with Darth Vader.

Another guest much in demand was Anthony Daniels, the actor inside the fussy, shiny droid C-3P0. He worked on all six Star Wars films.

"It's great to see some of my old friends, costumes and exhibits - including my own costume which is safely in a glass box so I can't put it on!" he told BBC News.

Daniels is clearly proud to be part of the Star Wars universe, and to see it brought together in one place.
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So what will visitors to the exhibition actually see?
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They include a full-size Naboo N-1 starfighter along with Anakin's Podracer from Episode I: The Phantom Menace.

There are many rooms to explore, themed by planet: Tatooine, Endor, Hoth and Geonosis to name but a few.

Many of the original costumes can be seen close up

And let's not forget the Death Star. No prizes for guessing who takes star billing there.

It's a slightly odd experience to find such futuristic artefacts on display along the wood-panelled corridors of County Hall.

Visitors should be prepared for encounters with Jedi Knights and Sith Lords.

There is also a training school for people keen to hone their lightsaber skills.