Funeral date set for Star Wars actor Kenny

The actor, who for many years had lived in Ashton-on-Ribble, Preston, died after a long illness at the age of 81.

Star Wars fans and Prestonians have united in paying tribute to the star, who also had roles in Flash Gordon, Time Bandits, Amadeus, The Elephant Man and Jim Henson’s Labyrinth.

His family announced the funeral will be held on Wednesday August 24 at Lytham Park Crematorium at 2pm.

They have requested family flowers only - with donations to “Friends of Space” via funeral directors Co-op Funeralcare, Blackpool Road, Ashton, Preston.

Fans and colleagues alike paid tribute last week to Kenny after his death at home on Saturday August 13.

Lancashire comedian Steve Royle said: “Very sad to hear my old friend Kenny Baker has passed away. A lovely man and I feel honoured to have shared a stage with him. RIP Kenny.”

Award-winning Mexican film director Guillermo del Toro said: “A great one - and, like Napoleon, his stature was measured not from head-to-ground but head-to-sky. A brilliant man.”