THE force will be strong in Ashton-under-Lyne as the much-loved Ashton Sci-Fi Day returns to the town centre on Saturday, May 2.
Running from 11am, the free community event will once again transform Ladysmith Shopping Centre into a hub of intergalactic activity.
Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in a day of cosplay, characters and family-friendly entertainment.
Among the highlights this year will be appearances from iconic sci-fi favourites. A full-sized R2-D2 droid will be stationed inside the shopping centre, alongside a Wookiee Chewbacca display, offering plenty of opportunities for photos. Fans of classic science fiction can also expect to spot life-sized cutouts from Star Trek dotted around the centre.
The event will also mark a significant moment for The Anthony Seddon Fund, the centre’s current nominated charity. Representatives will be on site throughout the day, not only raising awareness of their work supporting those affected by mental health issues, but also hosting the ever-popular cosplay competition.
Open to all ages, the competition invites participants to step into the shoes of their favourite characters – whether from sci-fi, gaming, fantasy, superheroes or even the darker side of villainy.
Organisers say further details on how to enter will be shared on social media in the coming weeks. Prizes have been donated by local and national supporters including Character Options, Star Cutouts and Doctor Who Magazine.
The Anthony Seddon Fund is well known locally for its informal peer support, offering a safe space for individuals facing mental health challenges, along with their families and carers. Its programme includes a drop-in service and a range of therapeutic and holistic activities.
Behind the event is Hyde Fundraisers, a volunteer-led group that has been raising money for good causes since 1985. Known for bringing characters from Doctor Who, Star Wars and beyond to life, the group continues to support a range of charities through its events.
This year’s beneficiaries include Tameside Little Gems, The Anthony Seddon Fund, the RSPCA, Yorkshire Cat Rescue, Beechwood Cancer Care and Door 84.
Peter Brocklehurst from Hyde Fundraisers said: “We are thrilled that Ladysmith is part of the event once again and working with The Anthony Seddon Fund. Both children and adults love to show their creative skills costuming as their favourite characters and this event is a great opportunity to do that. I’m looking forward to seeing what characters will be popping along for the Cosplay Competition for R2D2 to meet!”
Ashton Sci-Fi Day is supported by a number of local partners including Ladysmith Shopping Centre, Tameside Markets, Arcades Shopping Centre and Ashton Town Team, through Pride in Place funding from the government.