On Sunday we left North West London heading north to Milton Keynes. First stop, Collectormania 11 and the busy shopping centre. After spending a few hours there we trekked even further north on the M1 to Leicester, staying overnight, to spend all day Monday being entertained by the UK Garrison at the National Space Centre.
Collectormania 11 – It was very busy and there were a few new Star Wars items available to buy including the “I am your Father…” set, Treachery on Saleucami Speeder Bikes and the Gentle Giant Luke maquette to mention but a few. There were some great bargains to be had and a Wave 2 set of six figures was available for just £35. Lego had the new 30th Anniversary magnet sets and the new Star Wars key rings.
Return of the Garrison, National Space Centre – As soon as we parked the car we were greeted by the members of the UK Garrison and were escorted to the entrance of the National Space Centre.
The children attended Jedi School and were shown the art of defence using a lightsabre as demonstrated by the UK Garrison. They made magnets, paper bags and spacecrafts in the free craft sessions. Upstairs in the tower the children also learnt how to draw their favourite Star Wars characters courtesy of Dorling Kindersley.
There were a few stars from the film in attendance including Jeremy Bulloch and Kenny Baker and they were available for autographs and photos throughout the day. If you wanted a photo with Stormtroopers or Jedi instead there were plenty around and as normal they were very friendly and willing.
For the first time at the National Space Centre, the Brickish Association were present showing off a huge Mos Eisley Lego display including one of only three of the new USC Lego Millennium Falcon’s in existence. Hopefully you’ll be able to see the whole display at Celebration Europe.
They also showed the entire Star Wars UCS range along with a Lego Star Wars timeline of all the products ever made in the range. You could also join in and help build a full size Darth Vader.
Some original Star Wars props were also on display along with all the normal Space Centre exhibits. To top it off, you couldn’t resist parting with a few pounds on the huge variety of Star Wars merchandise available.
For those in attendance you could also buy your Celebration Europe tickets with 30% off!
Here’s hoping the UK Garrison made a small fortune for their charities which include MediCinema and Make a Wish. Thanks to Malika and the Staff of the National Space Centre for their hospitality!