GREAT Britain's first ever comics convention was held in Birmingham in 1968. Since then comics fans have also gathered to celebrate the medium they love in Brighton, Bristol, Glasgow, London and Manchester.

Now comic book fans are preparing to indulge their passion in England's second city again at the Birmingham International Comics Show on December 9 and 10.

It promises to be a spectacular weekend featuring some of the biggest and brightest names from the UK along with all-star international guests. There is already an events packed programme of panels, signings, and the finest speciality shops and comic book dealers attending ready to offer some fantastic bargains and rare purchases, plus some extra special surprise convention exclusives!

This major event all takes place at The Custard Factory, the city's popular arts and media complex. With on-site bars, restaurants, a movie theatre and gallery space there will be room for all and activities to suit all tastes, young and old alike.

It will be a chance to relive childhood - Roy of the Rovers, Dennis the Menace, a number of others, and also The Spider, drawn by Birmingham's very own Reginald Bunn.