Sci-fi whizzkid Luke Palmer, of Chippenham, has been praised for his dedication to building life-sized TV and film characters to use at fundraising events.

The 16-year-old student spends hours putting together Davros Daleks and Stormtroopers, which have helped to raise thousands of pounds for charities over the past few years.

The organiser of Charity Daleks, a group which tours the West Country with models of well-known science fiction characters, has spoken of his admiration for Luke and the work he puts into his creations.

Ady Davies, of Corsham, said: “Luke is just phenomenal and it is hard to believe that he has made some of these things.

“In amongst his school work he finds the time to build these models and outfits and helps us out at events.

“On top of all that he has absolutely busted a gut to do the advertising for our next sci-fi day in April. He is only 16 and I think it should be shown that not all teenagers are out there causing trouble. He is an absolute star.”

Mr Davies, 50, first met Luke at an event two years ago when the teenager turned up to help out.

The Hardenhuish School student spent around four months making the second Davros – a half-Dalek he sits in to drive with a mask on.

He hopes to follow a career in film set and prop design.

He has already produced the props for his school Christmas production His mum Linda said: “Luke has been building since he was at playgroup.

“He used to come home with a bag full of sticky objects made of cardboard and glue.

“Everyone else would make one or two, and I would end up with a bagful.”

Luke built his first Davros using his dad’s tool kit at the age of 12. He has since built an upgraded model and is working on a third.

Mrs Palmer said: “I think it is great. We have met a lovely group of people with Charity Daleks and it is a bit of fun.

“My husband and I go along but we do not dress up – yet.

“Maybe when Davros 2 is made redundant that will be mine to wear.”

Charity Daleks is not a registered charity but holds events to raise money for charitable organisations, and has helped The British Heart Foundation, Chippenham PHAB and Macmillan Cancer Support.

The members describe themselves as a group using their hobby to raise money for charity and awareness of good causes.

To find out more visit www.charitydaleks.co.uk