By Nick Griffiths

Last updated at 11:30, Monday, 20 August 2012

Aliens and superheroes rubbed shoulders as hundreds went crazy for costumes and comics in Carlisle.

Spiderman and Batman stand watch outside the convention

The Richard Rose Central Academy was packed as fans of genres such as science fiction and horror shared their passions and interests at a city convention.

Megacon Carlisle has built on the success of the ReCon comic book events previously held at the Waterstones store in the city centre by moving to a bigger venue.

A stormtrooper from the Star Wars films welcomed crowds as they gathered outside before the opening time on Saturday.

Inside fans came dressed as monsters from films including the Alien and Predator movies, characters from Japanese manga comics and iconic superheroes such as Spiderman, Batman and Captain America.

The event featured attractions including racks of comics, stalls with models, books and games, desks where artists produced original sketches and people behind comics by publishers DC and Marvel carried out signings. There were also events including art and costume competitions.

Levi McGlinchey, an organiser, said: “Last year was packed and you couldn’t move in there. There was only one option – to make it bigger and better.

“We’ve got everything from sci fi to horror books, comics and collectibles.”

Mark Cameron Welch, of Harraby, Carlisle, came as the monster from Predator. He and his friends go to conventions around the UK.

“I’m just a massive Predator fan,” he said. “I bought this second hand, for just over £1,000.”

Shona Walker, 16, from Wigton, come as the character Loki from the film The Avengers.

She said: “I really like comic books and manga. This is really cool.”

Wayne Coulthard, 17, from Stanwix, Carlisle, donned a Batman costume for the day. “I just thought I would give it a go,” he said.

First published at 11:24, Monday, 20 August 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk