IN A FIELD far, far away stands a maze destined to give adventurers a new hope of summer fun.

At an opening with more storm troopers than you can shake a light sabre at, York Maze was declared open for 2017 with a special Star Wars tribute.

This year's design features heroes from the George Lucas series and coincides with this year's 40th anniversary of the film being released.

Cut into the corn fields in Elvington C-3PO, Hans Solo, Darth Vader and his Death Star base.

The maze has debuted a new design every year since 2002 and has included tributes to Yorkshire, James Bond, Doctor Who and Thunderbirds.

Tom Pearcy, 46, is the maze master who dreams up a new idea ever year.

Dressed as his favourite character, Hans Solo, he said: "Every year we have to create a new maze because the plants only last 12 months, so we try to celebrate some sort of anniversary, and this year Star Wars turning 40 is huge.

"It's amazing to think it's so old when it feels so current to people like me.

"There are not many films I can think of that you will get so many people dressing up and celebrating it after 40 years."

Members of Sentinel Squad UK a group of friends which regularly dress up as their favourite Star Wars characters, including Darth Vader, Chewbacca and a range of Stormtroopers, were at the maze to help launch the 2017 offering.

The group's Darth Vader - real name Lee Stelloo - said the actors are part of a not-for-profit organisation which mainly raises money for children's charities.

He said: It's fabulous and a great maze.

"I've never been here before despite living 40 minutes away, so it is a great time for my first visit."

The York Maze Star Wars 40th Anniversary tribute maze is open for visitors to explore this summer from Saturday until September 4.

For details of opening times visit www.yorkmaze.co.uk.