THERE'S another Invasion taking place in Colchester's town centre this weekend and for sci-fi fans it's going to be one they won't want to miss.

Invasion Colchester was set up in 2011 by Simon Leonard to raise money to support pioneering lung treatment, which saved his life.

Simon was hours from death when a severe bout of swine flu led to complete organ failure. The only treatment available was pioneering Extra Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation, at Glenfield Hospital, in Leicester.

As a sci-fi fan who dresses up as characters at conventions, Simon decided to put on the event to support the hospital.

Now in it's sixth year the event continues to raise more money for good causes, this time St Helena Hospice and the Colchester Hospitals Charity.

Organiser Kerrie Williams says: "Last year we raised the amazing amount of £6,800 and this year we are aiming to beat that total.

"Whether they get dressed up as their favourite character or not, we want as many people to come along as possible, enjoy the event, and help us to raise as much as we can for our amazing charities."

Once again, at the heart of the event will be a whole host of sci-fi characters and super heroes taking to the town centre streets which visitors can track down with a special Superhero Treasure Hunt.

Another highlight will be a chance to meet and speak to some of the country's top sci-fi film extras.

Kerrie adds: "This year we are delight to announce that fan favourites Jon Campling, Nick Jospeph and Ralph Morse will be returning and in addition, we also welcome Mick Fryer-Kelsey, Sandeep Mohan and John Simpkin to our list of special guests."

Jon Campling is perhaps best known as a Death Eater in the Harry Potter films, while Nick Joseph was an extra in the 'Medal Scene' in the first Star Wars film, A New Hope, and Ralph Morse was a stormtrooper in The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi.

John Simpkin is another Star Wars extra, having played Klaatu in all of Jabba the Hut's palace scenes in Return of the Jedi, while both Mick Fryer-Kelsey and Sandeep Mohan featured in the new Star Wars film, The Force Awakens.

From ACE Comics in Culver Street East, through Lion Walk Shopping Centre and up to Culver Shopping Centre as well as the characters and extras, there will be live music, fun and games, as well as some familiar movie and television memorabilia including a Gotham City Police Department patrol car and the one and only A-Team Van.

Invasion Colchester takes place on Saturday, September 3, from 10am to 3.30pm. For more details, click here.