Stephen Merchant is auctioning off his Star Wars collection for a good cause. (SWNS)
By Filipa Gaspar
Comedian Stephen Merchant's childhood "Star Wars" toys have been sold for more than £5,000 (over $6,000) to help raise money for a local school.
Merchant, 50, was born in Hanham in Bristol 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.
(Tom Wren via SWNS)
His Star Wars Collection was estimated to sell for between £300 and £500, but it fetched over £5,000.
"An amazing out-of-this-world result," said auctioneer Andrew Stowe.
All of the funds raised from the sale of Merchant's childhood toys are being donated to Ashton Park School, where his niece and nephew attend.
They are raising funds to build a new outdoor covered space for lessons, activities and events.
Merchant first saw "The Empire Strikes Back" at 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 country’s most recognizable stars, it really makes them special.
''These are no longer just ‘toys’, they’re important social artefacts."
(Tom Wren via SWNS)
One of the most sought-after lots from Merchant'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."
(Tom Wren via SWNS)
