DARTH Vader and his Stormtroopers descended on a racecourse for some intergalactic fun.

The Star Wars-themed family day at Thirsk Racecourse event attracted small fans of the classic film series who dressed in their Star Wars best and descended on the venue for a host of attractions.

There was a bouncy castle, activity booklets and a fancy dress competition for the youngsters.

Sheralyn Wade, head of sales and marketing at Thirsk Racecourse, said: “It is part of our family day series which are designed to encourage families to come along and have some fun in the outdoors.

“We’ve had Darth Vader and Stormtroopers giving meet and greets and walking around giving hi-fives to everyone and it’s just been a lot of fun.

“The fancy dress competition was for the children and we’ve had a lot of Stormtroopers, Darth Vaders and a princess from Frozen – I’m not sure where that fits in but it was very cute.”

The next themed family fun day will be James Herriot 'All Creatures Great and Small' on August 21, followed by a Pirates Family Day on September 1.

The events take place in the racecourse’s family enclosure, which has grandstand viewing, betting windows, a children’s playground and food outlets in the enclosure. Tickets can be booked online or by contacting the racecourse office on; 01845-522276 or emailing; info@thirskracecourse.net