SPORTSMEN and women inspired by the fictional Star Wars universe prove they 'R2' carrying the force as they swing their lightsabers into battle.

On the biggest day in every Star Wars fan's calender (May the fourth (be with you)) and ahead of the release of the new film – Solo: A Star Wars Story – the Oxfordshire branch of lightsaber combat training school Ludosport UK offered a demonstration.

Jordan Court, director at Ludosport, was instrumental in bringing the classes – which aim to ‘fight to spread the light’ – to the city in 2016.

He told the Oxford Mail that people get involved in the combat sport for a variety of reasons, including their love for Star Wars.

The 36-year-old is hoping to take the sport all the way to the top, with the idea of competing in international tournaments and eventually the Olympics.

Trial classes in Oxford take place each Friday at 7.30pm. For more information e-mail england@ludosport.net