The Odyssey Arena in Belfast is set to play host to some 'out of this world' entertainment this weekend, with the return of Invasion Belfast, courtesy of Emerald Garrison's Knights of the Empire.

The Emerald Garrison is a Star Wars costuming club that brings together enthusiasts from all over the world.

Based in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, their unyielding dedication to all things Stars Wars and costuming has led to some of the largest events throughout the UK and Ireland, including Invasion Belfast and Invasion Dublin; that they help raise awareness for several charities they work through is just the icing on the Alderaanian cake.

Each year over 40 iconic costumed characters including a legion of Storm Troopers, Darth Vader, Darth Maul, Jedi Knights, Bounty Hunters, Clonetroopers and even Wookies, descend on The Odyssey providing fans with the opportunity to meet their favourite characters and the actors who portray them.

Making a welcome return to the fold this year will be Jeremy Bulloch who played Boba Fett in The Empire Strikes Back & Return of the Jedi.

Femi Taylor, who played Jabba the Hutt's Twi'lek slave dancer Oola in Return of the Jedi, also joins the special guests this year.

The enormously popular Force Training with Emerald Garrison's very own Jedi Knight instructors is back, and those who think they have the 'force' for it, are advised to book.

The Cloned Props and Replicas exhibition this year features the huge Clone Wars 'Republic Fighter Tank.'

During Invasion weekend visitors can get their photograph taken as they man the guns of this amazing life-size prop.

This is also a great opportunity to pick up that collectible or toy you've been looking for at one of our traders stands.

Fans also have the chance to meet actors from the original movies during signings and lecture theatre talks.

Please note that the actors charge a fee for photographs and autographs.

(JG/BMcC)