Hundreds of invaders from fantasy stories are poised to storm Moray next year as part of the region’s first comic book convention.
Elgin friends Andy Mackenzie and James Thomson have travelled the country while dressed as their favourite science fiction characters.
The duo built their own stormtrooper uniforms after becoming hooked on the series as children.
And now they want to bring legions of fans of the show and similar stories to Moray so the region can cash in on the booming costume craze.
This year, the first event of its kind in Inverness for five years sold out more than five months in advance. Meanwhile, a similar event in Glasgow attracts tens of thousands of science fiction and fantasy fans.
Mr Mackenzie, one of the organisers, has been a lifelong fan of the Star Wars film series after being born in the year the first incarnation hit the big screen.
He said: “After the first one in Inverness we found out there were lots of people in the Elgin area who never knew it was on and were disappointed not to make it – so we thought we would do one ourselves.
“We’ve worn our stormtrooper uniforms at a few events in the area and people just love seeing them.
“We go all over Scotland for similar events so if we can pull people in from Inverness, Aberdeen or further afield then it could have a lot of benefits.”
Already lined up for the inaugural event, which has been dubbed “El-Con”, are gaming contests, costume competitions and memorabilia displays.
Meanwhile, a line-up of guests from science fiction and fantasy shows are expected to attend.
The event, which will take place at Elgin Town Hall in June next year, will raise money for Scottish children’s cancer charity Logan’s Fund.
Gill Neill, manager of Elgin’s business improvement district, has backed the event as an extra attraction to get youngsters into the town from outside the region.
She said: “We’re really excited to be supporting Moray’s first-ever comic book convention. There’s been a real buzz about it since we first announced it and we’re sure it’ll bring lots of people to Elgin.”
