ORGANISERS of this year’s Fisherrow Harbour Festival in Musselburgh are hoping that the force is with them as preparations get under way for the event, which coincides with Star Wars Day on May 4.

Visitors may catch a glimpse of Darth Vader, Chewbacca, stormtroopers and other Star Wars characters who are likely to make an appearance at the annual event, which showcases the town’s seafront.

A “broader range” of fun-filled activities and entertainment is promised, with organisers saying that they are building on the “triumph” of last year’s festival.

The event at the harbour celebrates the local community and shines a spotlight on the town’s seaside surroundings.

Events will include the popular raft race, a treasure hunt, pop-up shops, food delights from trucks and stalls, and two stages offering live music spanning pop, rock, folk, brass bands and local performers.

'Bigger and better than ever'

This year, the festival will feature the inaugural slosh dance challenge – with the festival committee determined to beat the world record.

Stuart Rillie, chairman of the Fisherrow Harbour Festival committee, said: “Last year’s success fuelled our passion to return bigger and better than ever. Our goal is to bring the community together against the stunning backdrop of Fisherrow Harbour, showcasing the fantastic water-based and seafront activities available to us year-round.”

The festival is sponsored by the Ravelston House Hotel and has also secured National Lottery Funding to drive more wind into its sails.

Mr Rillie gave a message to creative minds in the community, saying: “Enter the raft race and get ready to wow us with your themed raft. And everyone, make history with us in the slosh dance challenge. You could take part in a new world record!”

The committee said it was “grateful” to everyone who supported and contributed to the festival.