VISITORS to the Victoria Halls stepped into a parallel universe at the weekend as Helensburgh welcomed the first ever comic book convention to the town.

The event took place on Saturday, October 6 and was well attended as hundreds of superhero fanatics and comic book fans felt invincible for a few hours dressed up in their finest costumes.

Children under-10 went free and this proved popular with young families as they got the chance to meet their favourites including Batman, Darth Vader and Chewbacca.

There were also guest appearances from experienced Marvel and DC writers and artists, such as Gary Erskine and Monty Nero.

It was the first time the gathering has been held in Helensburgh and organisers the Big Glasgow Comic Page were encouraged to bring it to the town after the success of last year’s convention at Loch Lomond shores.

Organiser Ian Bonar said: "Around 700 people turned up, so it was a good turnout for a first time event.

"We had plenty of folk who wandered across us as there was lots of signage up around the town, so if they didn't know about it before then they certainly did on the day.

"Some of them got a bit of a scare with all the characters and costumes but everyone had a good day."

Harry Potter fans flocked to meet some furry friends as several owls proved popular and more than 40 traders were also in attendance. Professional cosplayers were available for free pictures and a Hollywood-style green screen excited visitors too.

Despite the event going down well with fans, Ian could not confirm yet whether it will return to Helensburgh next year, although plans could be put in place to move to a bigger venue after its success.

As this selection of fun-filled photos proves, the children – and plenty of adults – will certainly hope that is the case.