THERE was an unworldly scene in Newnham last Friday morning when a trio of Star Wars Stormtroopers surfed a spectacular Severn Bore.

Key scenes from the highly-anticipated Star Wars: Episode VII The Force Awakens – due for release on December 17 – were filmed in Coleford’s Puzzlewood and features several times in the new trailer.

The stunt was commissioned by Wye Valley and Forest of Dean Tourism to mark the forthcoming launch of its new TV and movie trail.

Mark Terry-Lush, director of Wye Valley and Forest of Dean Tourism, said: “We thought it would be fun to swap the Death Star for surfboards and see if the soldiers of the Galactic Empire could ride the waves to mark the launch of our new TV and movie trail. 

“Puzzlewood’s atmospheric and picturesque location provided a natural stage for Star Wars: Episode 7, so fans needn’t travel to a galaxy far, far away to follow in the footsteps of the film’s stars.”

The Forest has been a hotspot for several film crews over the years working on productions like Dr Who, The Huntsman and Harry Potter – to name a few.

From December 16 visitors can follow in the footsteps of their favourite characters through the ancient landscapes and historic sites of the region when the TV and movie trail website goes live. For more information visit www.wyedeantourism.co.uk.