Preston gearing up for Free Comic Book Day craze

Every year on the first Saturday in May, Free Comic Book Day comes to Preston as part of a global celebration championing the characters and colours on the pages by giving away free copies to anyone who fancies one.

Preston’s own independent comic book shop, That Comic Shop, is taking part in the day and hopes to see hundreds descend upon its Friargate store.

Noel Corless, who has owned That Comic Shop since 2007, said: “I usually get queues outside the door before opening at 10am.

“It is our biggest day of the year. I never get the chance to sit down it’s that busy!”

Titles available for free include The Avengers, Doctor Who, Transformers, DC Super Hero girls and a spin-off story from video game Overwatch.

42-year-old Noel, inset, said: “We usually have between 10 and 15 titles so luckily there should be something for everyone.

“This is my eleventh one now, but I’ve worked here a long time before that for around 20 years.

“When my old boss retired I thought this was an offer I couldn’t refuse. I turned my dead-end job into a dream.”

And eager fans can get themselves a little something extra if they come dressed up as their favourite characters, a hobby called ‘cosplaying’, with a free ticket to Preston Comic Con being given to the best dressed.

Those in costume will also be given three free comics instead of the one.

The shop opens on Saturday from 10am to 4pm.