Out of this world... Darth Vader costume could fetch £300,000

A RARE Darth Vader costume is expected to fetch between £160,000 and £300,000 when auctioned next month. Its mask and helmet are production-made from the 1980 movie The Empire Strikes Back.

Neil Roberts, head of the Popular Culture department at Christie's, said: "Christie's have sold some incredible relics, from Dorothy's red slippers from The Wizard of Oz to a dress for Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast At Tiffany's. Arguably the Darth Vader costume is the most iconic of all. We look forward to presenting a rare opportunity to Star Wars fans."

A percentage of the sale proceeds will go to Cancer Research. The auction, Popular Culture: Film And Entertainment, will be held at Christie's South Kensington on November 25.