A LIFE-SIZED model of Star Wars' R2-D2, signed by the late actor Kenny Baker, is one of the highlights set to go under the hammer at a specialist toy auction next month.

This two-day toy sale, scheduled for Cottees Auctions, Mannings Heath Road, Poole, is likely to attract international interest.

Actor Kenny, who died earlier this month, aged 81, played the role of the blue and white droid in six episodes of George Lucas' franchise.

Cottees' toy expert Nell Hilditch explained: "The vendor had the model on display at a Comic-Con event and when Kenny Baker saw it he asked to borrow it for the day so that he could have photos taken with the fans.

"On returning the item Kenny asked what he could do to thank the vendor, at which point the vendor asked Kenny to sign the R2-D2."

Original photographs of Kenny signing the model are included in the lot.

Other items of interest to Star Wars fans include a Revenge of the Jedi Death Star display piece.

"The Death Star carry case was only available at the 2011 San Diego Comic-Con, and features fourteen Star Wars figures including the notorious Salacious Crumb," explained Nell. "If that doesn’t awaken the force in you a C-3PO collectors case from the 1980s with original card packaging will also be on offer. Both items have been encased in perspex stands and make fantastic one-off display pieces."

The auction, set for September 16 and 17, will also feature a host of other collectable toys, including Lego, model trains, dolls, tinplate toys and scratch-built models.

Nell explained: "Alongside the toy auction on September 17, we will be running our fortnightly antiques and interiors auction, followed by a fine jewellery and watches sale."