A COFFEE shop is preparing to host a special day of events for families and sci-fi lovers.

On May 4, also known as International Star Wars Day, Darlington coffee house Echo 3 will host a family day for all things space-related.

Located in Clarks Yard, Echo 3 is a coffee shop inspired by the Star Wars franchise and wants to use the day as an opportunity to encourage people to support local businesses.

From 10am to 4pm, the coffee shop will be open to public with special guests The 99th Garrison, a Star Wars cosplay group who will be on the streets of the town centre.

The troopers will be dressed as iconic characters from the Star Wars universe and shoppers can take pictures with the group.

While on the high street they will be collecting for the charity DreamFlight - a cause which aims to bring fun and joy into the lives of children with serious illnesses or disability by taking them on a holiday to Florida.

Family members are welcome to visit Echo 3, which is also dog friendly, where it will sell refreshments such as cake, tea and coffee.

Anyone who wants to celebrate Star Wars Daycan dress up as their favourite characters from the movie franchise.

A spokesperson from Echo 3 said: "Every family member is welcome to pop down and being a dog friendly shop, even our K9 friends can enjoy the day.

"We are also sharing the day with the Darlington Food Festival as well as the Darlington Jazz festival so there will be plenty of things to do."

More information can be found at facebook.com/echo3coffee