All the funds from the sale have been donated to Ashton Park School
Stephen Merchant’s childhood Star Wars toys have been sold for more than £5,000
Comedian Stephen Merchant’s childhood Star Wars toys have been sold for more than £5,000 to help raise money for a local school.
Actor Stephen, 50, was born in Hanham, and went on to co-write The Office and Extras with Ricky Gervais.
His most recent work – the comedy drama series The Outlaws – was filmed in his hometown.
Star Wars fans had the opportunity to purchase his childhood toys – with the funds going to a worthy cause.
More than 30 lots of action figures and playsets went under the hammer at Auctioneum Ltd in Bristol on May 19.
His Star Wars Collection was estimated to sell for between £300 and £500 but it fetched over £5,000.
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“An amazing out-of-this-world result,” said auctioneer Andrew Stowe.
All of the funds raised from the sale of Stephen’s childhood toys are being donated to Ashton Park School in Bristol where his niece and nephew attend.
Actor Stephen Merchant with his Star Wars collection
They are raising funds to build a new outdoor covered space for lessons, activities and events.
Stephen first saw The Empire Strikes back age six when it was released in cinemas, and it had a profound effect on him. It’s where he fell in love with cinema.
“Every child born in the seventies grew up with Star Wars around them,” says Andrew, “but for some, the franchise had a greater effect.”
“We sell many childhood collections of toys, but when that child grew up to be one of the countries’ most recognisable stars, it really makes them special.
”These are no longer just ‘toys’, they’re important social artefacts.”
One of the most sought after lots from Stephen’s collection was his original Millennium Falcon playset.
“It’s in remarkably good condition,” says Andrew
“Usually they are battered and bruised from flights around the living room – but Stephen clearly treasured this as it’s complete and in good condition.”
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