IN 1977 - in a galaxy far, far away - George Lucas launched what would become cinema’s biggest franchise.

The success of the 70s and 80s movies saw Black Country stationery firm Maped Helix (or just Helix as it was known then) launch an array of Star Wars products – in fact they were one of the first UK brands to do so.

Fans of the films snapped up Star Wars themed pencil cases, felt tip pens, erasers, rulers and geometry sets to take to school. The company, then based at Lye but now based in Kingswinford , even turned Darth Vader’s Death Star from spherical planet destroyer to a funky disco sharpener.

Previous pocket money items are now going for hundreds of pounds on online auction sites – and a recent sale saw a single felt tip with its pack and branded insert accumulate bids up to £280 while the full set sold for £487.

Star Wars fan Craig Spivey, from Leamington Spa, grew up with the products and has built up a planet-sized collection over 38 years which he has decided to showcase to mark the launch of the seventh instalment in the sci-fi series.

He said: “I’ve always been a massive fan. I wanted to share them for people to view though; there is history in these products.

“They were appealing to kids because they were bright and incorporated their favourite characters. There was even a chance to win a Star Wars School Set by collecting tokens from tins of Heinz Beans and Sausages.

“When stationery is used so regularly, it tends to get binned, hidden away or sold at a car boot. As such, the products have become incredibly sought after.”

Collector Craig, who has managed to keep his treasured items in top condition, added: “I’ve just accrued this collection over generations and am really excited for the new film.”

Released in cinemas across the UK today (Thursday December 17), Star Wars: The Force Awakens stars original cast members Harrison Ford, Carrie Fisher and Mark Hamill alongside new stars John Boyega, Daisy Ridley, Oscar Isaac and Adam Driver.