You won’t be Forced to see this display
“They sold 300 million toys, they sold across the planet.”
Star Wars figures were massively popular in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Millions were produced, many which came with their own plastic weapons or removable clothing.
Many of these figures are on display in Southport - such as a Millennium Falcon, and At-At, Jabba The Hut, as well as main characters such as Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia.
Their value varies according to condition. A mint Princess Leia figure complete with cape and gun might be worth £60 - worth checking your loft!
It is that global appeal that has helped Matt build his impressive collection.
He said: “In the last 15 years the internet has been great at enabling me to link up with other collectors, through Facebook groups, forums, and eBay. Previously unattainable things suddenly became possible.”
He declined to put a value on his unique collection, just saying “a lot!” but it is something that gives him huge personal pleasure.
Classic Star Wars memorabilia is currently increasing in value, thanks in part to millions of new fans enlisted through the release of recent movies in the franchise.
The next film, Rogue One, will be released in December.
The record for a Star Wars toy figure was broken in July this year, when a Boba Fett sold for £26,000 - quite a sum for a figure you could have bought in shops such as Woolworths, Toymaster or Whistlers in Southport for £1.50 back in the 1980s.
Anyone who collected Star Wars toys in the 1970s and 1980s, and anyone who became fans of the films since, now have a unique chance to see the very rare exhibition in Southport.
Matt said: “I am really pleased we have managed to get my collection on display here at The Atkinson so that it can be enjoyed by people.”
May the Toys Be With You, sponsored by Chris Tinsley Estate Agents, runs at The Atkinson on Lord Street in Southport until Sunday, March 5, 2017.
Admission is £3 adults, £2 child, £8 family and £20 family season ticket.
To book tickets or for more information, visit theatkinson. co.uk or call the Box Office on 01704 533333.