The dark side took Gravesend by storm when Star Wars characters invaded the town.

Stormtroopers surprised shoppers as they toured stores and businesses, stopping to take people under their guard and posing for the odd photo or selfie.

Their visit was to promote the screening of Star Wars: The Force Awakens at The Paul Greengrass Cinema at The Woodville.

Theatre manager Mandy Hare said: “It was excellent fun watching people’s reactions to the Stormtroopers, provided by UK Garrison.

“It’s not every day that you see such characters walking down the high street. We hope that people will visit us to watch the film. Ticket prices start from £3 so it is a really affordable activity for the whole family.”

Star Wars is showing until Saturday, January 16, and tickets can be booked at www.woodville.co.uk