A DONEGAL publican says the filming of the latest Star Wars blockbuster in Malin Head has provided a much-needed boost for the area.
The northerly headland was selected as a backdrop for a scene in the film following the use of Skellig Michael, off the Kerry coast, in the seventh instalment of the franchise Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
And as life begins to return to normal following days of fevered interest, Hugh Farren said he believes being in the spotlight can deliver lasting benefits for the area.
The picturesque part of Co Donegal has been on lockdown since Friday during shooting of parts of the latest instalment of the science-fiction saga.
For days it was a mecca for fans of the blockbuster, many standing for hours for the chance to catch even a glimpse of stars such as Mark Hamill or Daisy Ridley.
And for Mr Farren, the arrival of the biggest franchise in movies, has provided a major boost for trade.
The Farren's Bar owner said business was booming during a "normally quiet month".
"There has been a steady crowd of fans and crew here. It has been tremendous. Even the publicity alone, I could never have paid for. I've counted five television interviews and we've been on the radio as well."
And he said he believed the spotlight the filming has cast on Malin could give the area a long term lift.
"So many young people have left this area. We used to have a very successful football club but now there's not the same young people coming through.
"I think that after seeing Malin on the television, they'll think this place is the centre of the world, and want to return."
As for actually getting to see any of the filming taking place, Mr Farren said his bar was the closest anyone could get beyond the cordon.
"The whole place has been cordoned off. Some people say they've been able to see the set at a distance and you can spot the Millennium Falcon through a long lens. Mark Hamill has definitely been spotted."
Mr Hamill, who plays Luke Skywalker in the film, has been very active on social media over the weekend as he responded to queries about the movie from his legions of fans.
And the star - who has 1.1 million followers on Twitter - even endorsed a music video by local young people playing the Star Wars theme on traditional instruments such as the accordion and flute.
"Thank you for the #MagnificentMusicalMalinHeadDonegal welcome! You make us feel like part of one big Irish family!"
The video, published on YouTube by Caroline Glackin featured the Malin Head Afterschools Music Madness Squad playing at tourist spots throughout the area - accompanied all the way by Darth Vader.
While Star Wars may have left Malin Head for now, local rumours suggest the film crew is set to return again later in the year.
