Pictures: Sci-fi convention proves big hit in Falkirk

Passers-by could have been forgiven for thinking High Street had been transformed into a film set last Saturday as legendary figures from hit movies such as Batman and Star Wars posed for pictures with adoring fans.

Rather, it was a Capital Sci-Fi Con: Falkirk Invasion event at the Howgate Shopping Centre, which drew visitors from all across the country for a day of activities and displays.

What made the day even more special was the fact it raised £5634.90 for Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS) in just six hours.

Sci-fi fans of all ages descended on the Howgate where they had the chance to meet with characters like R2-D2 and Spiderman and get their photograph taken on a Terminator set or beside the bike from The Walking Dead.

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The younger generations raced to Falkirk Steeple to make the most of an opportunity to catch a glimpse of Lightning McQueen from Pixar animation Cars among several other sci-fi vehicles.

Away from the excitement of the movie stars and the props, there were also activities for visitors to try out such as retro games and nerfery.

Margaret Foy, marketing manager at the Howgate Shopping Centre, described the Capital Sci-Fi Con as one of the greatest the venue has laid on due not only to the charity cash and feelgood factor, but also the increased footfall.

She said: “It was incredibly good, probably one of our best events over the last decade.

“We had many visitors who had travelled from all over specifically for the event, with many having never visited Falkirk before. The general atmosphere was an obvious highlight.

“Our car park was up 21 per cent, Costa Coffee and The Allotment Cafe had their best day’s trade ever and it appears many of the other businesses had a great day’s trade too.

“They did some of the activities, went away and had a coffee or lunch and came back so it’s benefited the town.

“Characters like Darth Vader and Storm Troopers were walking around, stopping for photo opportunities.

“One of the other highlights was the car display at the Steeple. Children loved getting their pictures with Lightning McQueen.

“I think a lot of dads enjoyed showing their children the games they played when they were young.”

Margaret added: “It was a great day when loads of lasting memories were made and it was brilliant to see Falkirk full of shows and visitors. Thank you to Falkirk Trinity Church, Falkirk Delivers, the 25 CHAS volunteers, the Capital Sci-Fi Con team and to all of the customers who donated.”