Saltcoats Library paid tribute to Star Wars actor Peter Mayhew, whose death at the age of 74 was announced last night.

The library held the commemoration ahead of its Star Wars-themed day on May 4 – a worldwide celebration of George Lucas’ classic films.

But staff decided to host another event in tribute to the late actor who was best known for playing the lovable Chewbacca in the original Star Wars trilogy.

Children and fans visited the library today (Friday, May 3) for a celebration of all things Star Wars, ahead of the annual event tomorrow.

Jacqueline Dunbar from Saltcoats Library told the Herald: “The idea was to have the book display, colourings and other activities on May 4 like we do every year. But because Peter Mayhew just died, and we thought it would be nice to do something today [May 3] as well.

“Some of the children from the nursery were there today, which was nice. We’ll still have the Star Wars Day tomorrow. We’ll also have our Lego club as well.”

Star Wars Day at Saltcoats Library is a drop-in event taking place tomorrow (Saturday, May 4) from 10am-4pm.