A COLOURFUL comic convention has been held in County Durham over the weekend.

The DiddyCon Comic and Gaming Convention was organised by Dark Matters Cafe and Events and held at Park View Community Association in Church Chare in Chester-le-Street.

Batman and the Riddler were just two of the fancy dress costumes donned by fans of superheroes and sci-fi at gathering on Saturday.

Others opted to come as characters from Star Wars, Dr Who and Judge Dredd.

Dan Pye, director of Dark Matters Events, said: “It went really well. About 545 people turned up, which is about what we expected so it was really good.

“At one stage there was a fun fight between a Dalek and a Pokemon character. “It was the weirdest thing I have ever seen in my life, but it was very funny.”

The day also featured role play, comic workshops with local artists, card gaming sessions, and inflatable interactive games.

One of the biggest attractions was the 1989 Batmobile, complete with fully-functioning flame throwers and roaring engine, from the Batman film starring Michael Keaton.

Mr Pye said: “When the guy dressed as Batman came in every ran over him and he said: ‘I’ve come to collect the car.’”

Organisers worked with Durham County Council’s Area Action Partnership to stage the event, which had merchandise and memorabilia for sale, as well as competitions throughout the day.

The larger KingCon event will return to the Gala Theatre on October 11.