2000 AD Online Forum

It's that time of year again folks, are you brave enough to join an intrepid venture up this great country of ours to the friendliest convention out there, Hi-Ex! 2012

This will be exactly the same as the first Hell-Trek in 2010 which you can see here (http://forums.2000adonline.com/index.php/topic,26263.0.html).

The general idea is this:-

Depart Maidstone around 17:00 on 'Thursday' the 29th March 2012 and drive up to Inverness using the shortest/quickest possible route. It has to be Thursday due to time constraints and you will want to partake in the bar on the Friday evening.
We return on Sunday the 1st April 2012 as soon as the con closes, so around 17:00-18:00. The Rad Wagon would already be filled with our luggage, so it would be a case of just putting your con stuff from the day in and then hitting the road.

The drive up is more leisurely than the drive back, as I have to get the Rad Wagon back to the hire company by 08:00 on the Monday, otherwise it's extra costs and that would be on me. This means that as we pick people up on the way up bods can have a fag and stretch their legs for 15 mins or so and then all climb back in and continue our journey. On the way back down it's a case of just jumping out (we will stop) and being handed your luggage and a quick goodbye.

The reason this is a great way to see a con are as follows:-

PRICE, I went to the vehicle hire place yesterday and at the moment a 9 seater mini-bus will cost £300 for the trip. Add onto that fuel, which I can't see being more than £400 for the whole weekend. Then break it down between 9 and you end up paying £78 for the return journey. If it was between 7 then it would be £100. Obviously I want 9 people and even then I don't think the fuel would be that much. That £400 for the fuel is a top end guess, I think between the 7 of us last time we payed around £75-£85 for the trek.

GUARANTEED whole weekend at con, you won't have to rush off on the Sunday afternoon to catch a plane/bus/train etc... because of their timetables. We leave after the doors shut!

DOOR TO DOOR (within reason), I want to use the shortest/quickest route, so I don't want to be meandering up the country.

A GOOD LAUGH, you'll be able to read how the whole weekend went if you follow the link earlier and go to page 71.

THE CONVENTION ITSELF, I'm sure you've all heard about it and know how good it is, well this is a great way to see it! If you've never been to a con before, why not make this your first and with a bunch of friendly faces from the forum.

All I am asking for at the moment is names & locations and I'm trying for the full 9. Once that has been reached then the route and timings can be figured out.

Once the names are confirmed I can then book the Rad Wagon. Now, due to one person ringing me a couple of hours before I left to cancel on the first Hell-Trek, I shall be asking for an up front and non refundable deposit (amount to be decided). This could be returned if another person takes your place, so think carefully before you commit, as it's unfair for everyone else to absorb the costs.
Once we arrive in Inverness I can then figure out the total cost for the trek, as I will be able to figure out the fuel cost , due to it being the halfway point.
One final thing, everyone pays the same amount for the trip, so if you live in Birmingham you pay the same as a person who lives in London. Just makes it easier and fairer!

The accommodation is easy enough. You can stay in the con hotel, The Ramada or like some others stay over the river in the Palace Hotel. That is something that can be decided a little later. If you are okay with sharing a room then the costs are even better.

That's about it for now, so if you are up for it then add your name to the list.

1. COMMMAND FORCES - Maidstone

By the rules of Shotgun, I call shotgun!

See all of you and witness and bow down before the rules of shotgun.

:D

The only problem is that I could already be in Crewe filming.......  :(

2. Large48 - Epsom

3 - Locust, Philadelphia PA...you can pick me up, right? Right? Make a special stop for one of the founding members?

I somehow think a detour via the North Atlantic is slightly too far in just one evening my dear Locust  ;)

So at the moment it's

1. COMMANDO FORCES - Maidstone
2. Large48 - Epsom

Spireite68 (Simon) Junction 28 M1. That's 3.

Yep, I'm up for this, again. Had a fantastic time at the last one and would recommended it. As long as you are okay to pick me up from Heathrow or Gatwick airport.

Gavin_Leahy - Airport.

I'd love to join in, but I reckon making my own way would be best, given it's a far shorter drive. We could always go in convoy if you're not passing at stupid o'clock...

Excellent!

Great to have Gavin back on board and a warm welcome to Spireite68 & Large48  :thumbsup:

1. COMMANDO FORCES - Maidstone
2. Large48 - Epsom
3. Spireite68 - M1 Junc 28
4. Gavin_Leahy - Gatwick/Heathrow

Good Luck! see you up there  :D

Just had a look on the revamped website for Hi-Ex! (http://www.hi-ex.co.uk/) and it has the first guests up  :thumbsup:

Just this moment received the news from the fifth courageous trekker to be added to the team and that person is none other than Jim Campbell. Letterer to the stars! (and PJ)  :D

So within a week we now have the following on board

1. COMMANDO FORCES - Maidstone
2. Gavin Leahy - Gatwick/Heathrow
3. Large48 - Epsom
4. Jim Campbell - Nottingham
5. Spireite68 - M1 Junc 28

A pretty straight forward route  :thumbsup:

Really fancy Hi-Ex, 513 miles on the Bike, can my old bum take it.

Why don't you ride along to a pick up point and join us, you know you want to. It can be dangerous up that A9 at that time of year, especially with a numb bum!

Have gone on about being the Hell Trek Hell Rider for so long that bugger it I'm gonna do it.
Hotel Booked 8-)

Now to tell Mrs Logan MkII the good news and buy her some extra seat padding.

When are you going to tell her, the day before  ;)

Well it looks like my creator's invite and chauffeured limo aren't happening (did I mention the 80  letters and a reader profile?) so I better throw my hat into the ring. I was considering chucking the rad-wagon in favour of the train as a kind of Jimmy Saville tribute, but he never fixed it for me to meet Willy Wonka so screw him.

Your Souther favouring pricing policy may put off some of the Nort contingent who could save £50 by letting the train take the strain but not this devotee - the smell of farts and Wotsits isn't to be missed. My illustrious birthday is on the Sunday but I decided to shelve plans to import the wife for Sunday night in case the room remains haunted by Commando Force's underpants.

So sign me up and demand the deposit - I've 4 stone of capacity that's waiting to be refilled. Can anyone last the Buttonman's staying power this (next) year? (Saturday naps excepted).

Great news! 6 on board already, can we make it the full 9 before Christmas?
You all know the fun we had last time and I'm sure it will exceed that one, so come on, get your name on the list now  :D

1. COMMANDO FORCES - Maidstone
2. Gavin Leahy - Gatwick/Heathrow
3. Large48 - Epsom
4. Jim Campbell - Nottingham
5. Spireite68 - M1 Junc 28
6. Buttonman - Glasgow

And still a pretty straight forward route  :thumbsup:

1. COMMANDO FORCES - Maidstone
2. Gavin Leahy - Gatwick/Heathrow
3. Large48 - Epsom
4. Jim Campbell - Nottingham
5. Spireite68 - M1 Junc 28
6. Buttonman - Paisley

Corrected that for you - if you think I'm hanging aroung Glasgow city centre at 4am in my Simp suit you're sadly mistaken - just off the M8, look for the 'Home of the Letters King' billboards 40 miles out.

With the puddle of piss down the garden wall  ;)

Quote from: W. R. Logan on 04 December, 2011, 12:55:02 PM
Really fancy Hi-Ex, 513 miles on the Bike, can my old bum take it.

You sharing a room with CF?

Come on folks, anyone else up for this...

Im half up for it .....  ;)

Bump!!

The artwork for the con has been published on the site and it's by Tanya Roberts.


(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nyi1LhTPccw/TvHYJNgsXMI/AAAAAAAAAIo/AJPwnoZrMHE/s1600/hi+ex+web.jpg)

Quote from: COMMANDO FORCES on 21 December, 2011, 07:14:43 PM
The artwork for the con has been published on the site and it's by Tanya Roberts.


(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nyi1LhTPccw/TvHYJNgsXMI/AAAAAAAAAIo/AJPwnoZrMHE/s1600/hi+ex+web.jpg)

Why is Vicky making the sign to ward off the evil eye? that is Vicky isn't it?

Come on folks, we'd like another 3 people to be on board for the trek, it's 3 months now and you know you'll regret not going if you um and ar about it. So add your name to the list as I'm gonna confirm all this at the end of January.

Remember, unlike most other cons everyone drinks in the same hotel each evening so you can really go to town on your stalking  ;)

Just add your name to the list -

1. COMMANDO FORCES - Maidstone
2. Gavin Leahy - Gatwick/Heathrow
3. Large48 - Epsom
4. Jim Campbell - Nottingham
5. Spireite68 - M1 Junc 28
6. Buttonman - Paisley

Having looked at the train times and costs, I think it might be better for me to join up with the Hell Trek so I'll put my name down. Any chance you'll be heading past Livingston on the way up? If you are heading along the M8 I could jump on somewhere along there.

We can pick you up from your front door, having just checked the map! I'll pm you when I return from down the town.

there's service!

Anyone else?

Yesterday I had confirmation from Gavin of his flight into Heathrow at 15:00.

I'll be leaving Maidstone to pick up Large48 first then onto Heathrow, so with a bit of luck we should be with you around 18:00 (can't pick the vehicle up before 16:00 but you never know!

So at the moment we have  the following confirmed -

1. COMMANDO FORCES - Maidstone
2. Large48 - Epsom
3. Gavin Leahy - Heathrow
4. Jim Campbell - Nottingham
5. Spireite68 - M1 Junc 28
6. Buttonman - Paisley
7. davethomson - Livingston

We also have one other very interested in joining us, all the info has been sent and I'm just waiting on an answer.

I'll be dossing with Buttonman like last time, I think Jim has already booked his room (I'll confirm now), so that will leave everyone else to partner up to share (remember, what happens at Hi-Ex! stays at Hi-Ex!) if they want.

Back with more info when I have it.

P.S. There is one place left if anyone is still thinking about joining us :D

I'm the interested party and unfortunately, after looking at finances. I can't make it. I'm a bit gutted but in a year where my family can't really afford a proper holiday, I can't justify Hi-Ex. Have a good con, everyone!

Matt Badham

Well I'm up for sharing so am open to any offers that keep the cost down. Hoping to have bacon and sausage butties at mine for the southern helltrekers when they arrive in Derbyshire.

Thanks for getting back to me Matt, hope your finances improve in the near future as family always come first.

As for everyone else I shall be contacting you all this weekend with the final info and all that bollocks  :thumbsup:

Everyone who is on the list should have their pm's in their inbox, with all the info and confirmations needed!

At the moment we are finalised on 7 Trekkers.

1. COMMANDO FORCES - Maidstone
2. Large48 - Epsom
3. Gavin Leahy - Heathrow
4. Jim Campbell - Nottingham
5. Spireite68 - M1 Junc 28
6. Buttonman - Paisley
7. davethomson - Livingston

The room situation is as follows;-

COMMANDO FORCES/Buttonman - Twin - Mercure
Jim Campbell - Single - Encore

As said on the pm's, four names left, so that would be two twin rooms, half the cost  ;)

Tickets are now on sale. I've just bought my weekend one for £21 and a bargain it is too  ;)
Also paid the deposit on the Rad Wagon and was very happy to find it cheaper than before (and the quote I was given before Christmas). Instead of £300 it's now £240  :D

Also Buttonman has booked our luxury apartment in the Mercure (the con hotel) and its cheaper than last time, huzzah! Just mention the Con and Richmond to get the discount.

So come on chaps, get yourselves in gear and sort your tickets and rooms out. That means Large48 get in touch with Gavin.

We are on it.

Also need to get hold of Richard to sort out a table as well, so may have a couple of boxes of stuff to take with me......  ;)

That'll be Richmond  ;)

Okay all you Hell-Trekkers out there, the list as of now is still 7. We still have 2 places available if anyone wants to join us (look at the route as we may be coming past your front door)

1. COMMANDO FORCES - Maidstone
2. Large48 - Epsom
3. Gavin Leahy - Heathrow
4. Jim Campbell - Nottingham
5. Spireite68 - M1 Junc 28
6. Buttonman - Paisley
7. davethomson - Livingston

The room situation is as follows;-

COMMANDO FORCES/Buttonman - Twin - Mercure
Jim Campbell - Single - Encore
Large48/Gavin Leahy

Also as most know the Rad Wagon had the deposit paid the other week (couldn't upload the receipt as the PC died) and here it is showing that it's cheaper than the last time. It's only £240 for the whole weekend  :thumbsup:
I'll pay it all off next week!


(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Hell-Trek%202012/img002.jpg)

Nice one CF, my trains now booked, so that's everything in place for moi...  :D

Luckily for all those being picked up before Spireite68's house, he's laying on a feast for us all  :thumbsup:

Sounds good and I'm staying at the Mercure as well.  :)

By the way it seems that Planet Replicas will be at Hi-Ex! This means that all you Scottish thrill seekers can buy some proper merchandise  ;)

Sorry for the radio silence, chaps. I have been busy working on some things that should hopefully see the light of day up at Hi-Ex.

I am now completely sorted for tickets and hotel (staying at the mercure) and am thoroughly looking forward to meeting all of you, even though you'll probably all be asleep by the time I get picked up.

Nonsense Dave, you're just an hour for me and CF will probably be partially awake too.

the smell alone should keep them awake...

I like the way CF managed to get a whole penny discount on the van rental.....

Oh by the way its cheaper as there's no side windows in the back and the bench seating leaves a bit to be desired!

I love a discount and what do you mean benches, its beanbags  ;)

It's only 24 days till the Hell-Trekkers set off.

This means that it's only 26 days till Hi-Ex! (the con and not the Friday drinking sesh)  :thumbsup:

I'd better start packing stuff to take then... especially those limited edition items.  :-X

So what's the latest CF?

I'm paying the Rad wagon off this week, all routes planned, timings will be confirmed once I leave my door. I'll post more info tomorrow after work.

Quote from: COMMANDO FORCES on 14 March, 2012, 09:33:58 PM
I'm paying the Rad wagon off this week, all routes planned, timings will be confirmed once I leave my door. I'll post more info tomorrow after work.

(http://i53.tinypic.com/2wgci89.jpg)

I texted all the Hell-trekkers today with all the info.

Once I collect the Rad-wagon after 15:00 and fuel it up I'll put all my stuff in and text Guy and Gavin that I'm on my way. After picking one person up I'll text the next in line with our e.t.a. On the final approach to the next person a call will be made just so they can be ready.

Once we leave the midlands we will text the Cal-Hab crew of our e.t.a. so they can get some sleep in.

During the night we will pop on here and Twitter with our progress.

Don't forget Thelma and Louise (Pete & Rob) will be traveling up from Geordieland on Friday evening as well.

Will you still have the outrider?

No, his work got in the way  :'(

Quote from: Proudhuff on 28 March, 2012, 03:12:30 PM
Will you still have the outrider?

Couldn't get the time free so no Hell Rider this year but determined to make the next one.

Packing my stuff for the con now. Had a bit of a panic as I couldn't find a piece of the Judge Burdis uniform. I blame Sam for his secret visits into the cellar and moving things about.
Anyawy all is good now.

Just relaxing now until I pick the Rad Wagon up, join the fuel riots as I try to fill it up, put all the gear in and drive to Planet Replicas HQ  ;)

Quote from: COMMANDO FORCES on 27 March, 2012, 06:33:08 PM
Don't forget Thelma and Louise (Pete & Rob) will be traveling up from Geordieland on Friday evening as well.

Rob's gear box in his car is knackered so we might be coming up in his girlfriend's pink mobile which is apparently adorned with hearts and angels. I'm starting to worry...

He told me that was his plan all along, so enjoy the scenic route and don't let him pull over into any lay-bys  :o

It'll be like Gillian Tailforth all over again...

I'm all set, just in Shannon at the moment, waiting for my flight to Heathrow and then to join the Rad Wagon for the long trip up north.

We'll ring from Guys place to find out what terminal you are at, so we can have fun finding you!

Hopefully it'll go a little smother the last time.

Rad Wagon is bursting with fuel. All my gear is in. Just waiting on Sam to come home from school and then I'll be off. Well, when I say I'll be off, this is once the boiler repair man tells me if we need a new boiler or not. Exciting isn't it!

I hope CF has taken the Govt advice and strapped jerry cans to every possible inch of space, as the Cal Hab wastes are now offically empty of petrol!  ;)

I can see us getting stuck up there like in the Walking Deed.........




Did you see what I did there?




Yeah was crap wasn't it, I'll get my coat!

well, I got £20 of fuel easy as shit from ASDA Elgin this morning- nae probs. Dunno about Inverness but I reckon they have about 11 TESCOs so ONE is bound to have some, surely!]

Quote from: Dog Deever on 29 March, 2012, 05:25:36 PM
well, I got £20 of fuel easy as shit from ASDA Elgin this morning- nae probs. Dunno about Inverness but I reckon they have about 11 TESCOs so ONE is bound to have some, surely!]

yes, but DID have a shotgun with you

You helltrekkers set off tonight or tomorrow? Jimbo and I get into Inverness center at around three - what's the plan?

I.E. Where do we all drink - ? If anyone needs m'number for coordinations sake get in touch with me on FB or summat and if not - I'll send a flare up every time we hit the Ramada bar - !

This is 'citing...  and I'm not even going!!!

Good luck lads. It's with a bittersweet tinge that I wish you Bon Voyage.

CF, make sure the Trekker that has claimed my seat does not cower in the face of any Mutie Hordes you might encounter (probably in the Glasgow area)...

Have fun, all!

I'm getting the Stratbat to Calhab from Gatwick tomorrow and should land at Inverness at 11.05.
Really looking forward to it.

Quote from: Albion on 29 March, 2012, 08:56:44 PM
I'm getting the Stratbat to Calhab from Gatwick tomorrow and should land at Inverness at 11.05.
Really looking forward to it.

Woop! See you there!

Quote from: Richmond Clements on 29 March, 2012, 09:12:35 PM
Woop! See you there!

What? At the airport? Now that's service! That wasn't mentioned on the con ticket.  ;)

We are now at Buttonman's house looking at his mighty letters files on the computer. I have to say it is impressive  :-X
He's laid on a superb feast and even let us use a toilet and not his wall.

Those dishes aren't doing themselves you know!

Gavin there is a two bag maximum on crisps!

We are here and about to eat in our usual cafe. River view for me and Buttonman, noisy town view for the fellow other Trekkers  :lol:

I've just seen the pic of you guys on Mikes Facebook.

Looks like a great trip. 

I'd love to come along to High Ex one year, going to have to do it somehow even it if is the opposite end of the Islands from me.

Teleportation, or you can pick me up on the way....   Ill do the translation Mr Fish!

We are now relaxing in the Con hotel. Buttonman is zonked out in our room. Gavin and Guy are snuggled up together in their room and Dave has amazed us all with what he has hidden under his hat  :o

I'm just relaxing in the bar area with the iPad as the Internet down here is free. I shall be off for a wee sleep in a bit, I mean it's not as if I had to keep awake all night is it. Drokkin' wimps  ;)

Good idea Slips!

I keep saying i will do Bristol one year and never get around to it too.  My travel time ends up commited to family hols.

Next year though my son is off to Italy with the school on a ski trip and we don't plan to do anything else so it would be ideal for me to take myself off and do this.  Whether my little car would manage more miles in a weekend than it normally does in a year i'm not sure lol.

Actually you're not too far from me really are you, i'd just need to swing to dorset on the way up the west coast.

This could be a plan you know!  It would make for very awesome company I must say.  And, as you say, a qualified translator lol.

 :'(

Just remembering two years ago... so sad I couldn't be there again this year. It's for the best of reasons though!

We are having a great time up here and I can't believe how warm it is, the sun is actually out! There has been a superb turn out from the forum and a wee bit later today we shall be going for the official 2000AD forum picture, if we remember.
Many funny stories are to be told when we get back home, as using our phones is not the best way to convey long tales.

I'm sure my roommate Buttonman will be first to write an eloquent study of the events of the weekend, 10 minutes after we drop him off tonight, so keep watching the thread folks.

Look forward to such things as the meeting of the letter kings, the artist who put a large crease down a page in a sketch pad, the breakfast thief, the two Dark Lords of the Sith who booked a DOUBLE room, the strange case of the vanishing Dandondare, the flying 16" pizza, etc...

Tom Proudhuff is truly a living legend and the greatest letter writer to Tharg ever  :D

Come close young children. No, closer than than that. Maybe not that close.

A Hell Trekker has returned with tales of excitement and wonder. Sadly they have all been lost to the ravages of booze, so it's tales of drunken kebab shops antics as per the norm.

Shall we begin?

Well I'll starting anyway, you should have went earlier.

1) The Rad wagon departs Buttonman Mansions 3.07am .

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012001.jpg)

2) Buttonman and COMMANDO FORCES inspect their breakfasts in Charlie's Cafe. They are declared 'inedible' before being eaten.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012003.jpg)

3) Large48 (Guy) and Gavin Leahy (Gavin) are similarly impressed.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012004.jpg)

4) The last hurrah of the 2000ad/Megazine Street Team.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012005.jpg)

5) Gavin and Dave Thomson break out the big bucks for a spending spree.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012006.jpg)

6) Buttonman shows Hollywood casting agents how good it could/should have been.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012014.jpg)

7) Buttonman, CF, John and Gavin are surprised by late popping up Owen watts.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012015.jpg)

8) Terry Pratchett joke again? but of course...

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012012.jpg)

9) Dave Thomson not only has great looking hair he draws stuff too.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012011.jpg)

10) Dandontdare (Phil) Al Ewing, Gavin,Pete Wells and Rob look at someone's camera.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012026.jpg)

11) 2000ad Gods assemble. Also pictured : Cam Kennedy.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012016-1.jpg)

12) 2000ad Gods assemble. Also pictured : Al Ewing (it's been a long day!)

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012017.jpg)

13) Pete Wells, John Higgins, Phil & Dave negotiate an invisible bar in the bar.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012020.jpg)

14) Gavin, Phil and King Trout (Mike) all wait in vain for a bite of CF's pasty.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012029.jpg)

15) An Inverness lovely inevitably succums to the charms of the 2000ad messageboard.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012032.jpg)

16) Oh No! Who can clean up the massive mess left by a dropped 16" pizza?

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012032.jpg)

17) You fat fekker.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012034.jpg)

18) Wells, Dog Deever (Bruce), Gavin, CF, Richmond and BM get hot and indeed heavy.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012023.jpg)

19) Hey Kids! Can you spot the Rad-Wagon?

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012036.jpg)

20) The lads agree that the mis-matching spines on the case files are no big worry.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012042.jpg)

21) Bully boy Judge Burdis launches an unprovoked attack on our very own Buttonman!

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012037.jpg)

22) Happily true justice prevails when our hero fights back until the jimp begs for mercy. This DID happen.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012038.jpg)

23) The inevitable and inevitably awful Chinese buffet allows BM to continue his award winning 'Havin' me dinner' photo diary.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012039.jpg)

24) Pete Wells wastes a massive plate of food that condemns at least 20 African children to death.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012041.jpg)

25) BM attempts to enter the world of Ben Clark and succeeds.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012049.jpg)

26) Bm's 41st Birthday portrait. The bumps came later couresy of roofies.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012048.jpg)

27) The teapot of Zilk makes the story totally clear to all apart from the author who seemed to know nothing about what the feck is going on.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012057.jpg)

28) The pared down Hell Trek - 40% down but 25% sexier. (official audit figures)

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012061.jpg)

29) Block naming rights are settled 'Gypsy Wedding' style - my money's on the heavyweight.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012062.jpg)

30) Beggorrah! The wee man has it!

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012063.jpg)

31) The love mobile begins its trip back to Sunderland with trips to laybys and public toilets scheduled for every 30 miles.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012060.jpg)

32) The Zarjaz table - Dave, they were totally robbin you the entire time!

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012064.jpg)

33) John Higgins trys o work around the MASSIVE crease in CF's portfolio pad.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012066.jpg)

34) Tom Proudfoot fiddles the raffle to snag two kick ass prizes which he then 'gifts' to other to gain letters based favours - truly the Moriarty of the Letters Page!

(http://s26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/?action-view&current=hiex2012067.jpg)

35)  Will I post any more CF? No BM - let's get it on...

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012055.jpg)

Gah looks like you are owed two pics :

16) Pizza shop spillage :

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012033.jpg)

34) Proudfoot : Raffle Master

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012067.jpg)

I am so jealous!

Quote from: The Legendary Shark on 02 April, 2012, 12:39:10 AM
I am so jealous!

Me too! That first Hell Trekk is one of the best memories I have! I really wish I could have been there this year with ll of you fellows, but I'm glad everyone had a great time.

Keep posting pics!

looks so much fun am well jell. Someone has probably posted this already but its the 'official' photos and such....

http://www.flickr.com/photos/forbidden_planet_international/7032117711/in/photostream/

edit - actually crap dunno if thats the right link but im tired so sorry guys ill try and remember and find it later if its not x

I have now returned to the cellar. Once I dropped Large48 off I found myself in a scene from Duel but I turned the tables on Mr Nutty lorry driver  :lol:

I want one of those special hats that BM is wearing in Pic 23.....

Why hasn't anyone mentioned the 3AM Sexually Active scheme of CF and BM?!?!??!?  :'(

Strewth! What a weekend that was!

I had a great time on the Hell Trek and it was great to meet so many of the boarders there. Also great to meet some of the pros up there, being greeted by Al Ewing asking me if I was the one who wanted a sketch of a knob with Dredds helmet on is one of my proudest moments. Up there with Simon Bisley calling me a c**t for sure! :lol:

Got my copy of Dr WTF!? signed by Colin MacNeil, signed a few copies of it myself, got another lovely sketch of Michel Rodrigue and spent most of my money at the Cinebook table again.

I hope someone has a photo of Richmonds outfits for the weekend somewhere, his white suit on Saturday was brilliant but he took a leap of genius on Sunday with his kilt/Hawaiian shirt combo. Truly a fashion icon for us all to aspire to!

QuoteTruly a fashion icon for us all to aspire to!

I endorse this message.

Thanks for coming guys, it was great to see you all and I hope you all had a great time!
The final auction item was a genius idea cooked up on the spot by Mr Michael Carroll, and backed up by the lovely Al Ewing.
It was worth it alone for the look on Wells' face when I announced it!

And I have no memory at all of the picture above, which looks like it was one Friday night in the hotel, being taken.

Loads of boarders in that video there, but the most spectacular haircut is, as usual, sported by Dog Deever.

:)

Jings Crivens etc...

How good was that? Vicky and Rich pull it off again!! the whole celtic fringe element added a new dimension to the talks and the contacts. While the boarders continued carrying the social deadwieght/care in the comm' that is Butt'man with grace and fortitude.

The one of the highlights was of course THE Raffle were those Wells boys to one hell of a beating!! and CF practiced his damatic entrance/exits, a close second was the appearance of Ben's Stringer Bell at the bar closely followed by the look of dread that appeared on Mr E-Wing's face when the teapot of Zilk landed in the bar.
Oh, and the joy of willing some loverly stuff in the raffle was only topped by the wonderful 'what money can't buy' thank you I got for passing it forward, good karma all round.

Did anyone manage to get their hands on the collected boarders shots taken at the end? Everyone say Purple Pants!  :-[

Quote from: Richmond Clements on 02 April, 2012, 02:17:58 PM

And I have no memory at all of the picture above, which looks like it was one Friday night in the hotel, being taken.

There was a Friday night at the hotel?

Quote from: Gavin_Leahy_Block on 02 April, 2012, 05:28:43 PM

Quote from: Richmond Clements on 02 April, 2012, 02:17:58 PM

And I have no memory at all of the picture above, which looks like it was one Friday night in the hotel, being taken.

There was a Friday night at the hotel?

You may have BLOCKED it from your memory. See what I did there?
BLOCKED.
You like that one, Pete?

Quote from: Proudhuff on 02 April, 2012, 04:34:01 PM
Jings Crivens etc...

My only disappointment of the weekend was that during a whole weekend in Scotland I never heard anyone say those words, or even help ma boab, bawbies or bawbag.  :(

But....... I did get told by a Scotsman on the streets of Inverness that I had "sexy jeans" and enjoyed a ride back to the airport with a bus driver who seemed to think he was David Coulthard.

I did hear only one Bawbag and that was from the stage!! In fact Trout has rounded up at the:  'help ma boab, bawbies and boffins' to used at his work

edit for earlier post: 
The one of the highlights was of course THE Raffle were those Wells boys to one hell of a beating!! and CF practiced his dramatic entrance/exits, a close second was the appearance of Ben's Stringer Bell at the bar closely followed by the look of dread that appeared on Mr E-Wing's face when the teapot of Zilk landed in the bar.
Oh, and the joy of winning some loverly stuff in the raffle was only topped by the wonderful 'what money can't buy' thank you I got for passing it forward, good karma all round.

Quote from: Richmond Clements on 02 April, 2012, 05:32:10 PM
You may have BLOCKED it from your memory. See what I did there?
BLOCKED.
You like that one, Pete?

(http://images.zaazu.com/img/crying-smiley-sad-male-cry-tears-smiley-emoticon-000352-large.gif)

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/hiex2012034.jpg)

WELLS:THIS IS FROM DAWN MATHEASSOM!

Photos were requested and photos were indeed received!!!

Ta for the pics. Looks like a great time was had by all! Lord only knows though how the Hell Trek driver managed to get everyone back safely after that weekend! Constitution. Of. An. Ox!

And so begins the tale of THE LOST WEEKEND!

It all began (for me that is) with the friggin boiler dying on me on Thursday. I had the Rad Wagon booked for a pick up at 15:30, plus it had to be fiiled up with much sought after fuel but the boiler bod was coming at 15:00 and Sam needed to be met from school around 15:45ish. It was not going to be the best of starts but I somehow managed to depart for London around 16:30ish :thumbsup:

The Rad Wagon, pass us at your peril
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/1.jpg)

It was an easy drive to Large48's house and soon we had all the Planet Replicas goodies loaded up. Guy said he knew a quick route to Heathrow and so I followed his directions into CHAOS. The roads were full of lunatics hunting down fuel, in fact I'm sure I saw Toecutter driving past at one stage but never mind, we strove on towards Gavin at Heathrow. In the end we asked him to get the tube out to the first stop otherwise we may end up trapped due to the traffic problems, thanks PM.

We soon saw Gavin (who had decided to come as Brad Pitt in his role from Snatch) standing outside, could it really be two years since this wee man made such an impression on the last Hell-Trek? In he jumped and off we headed towards Buttonman.

The M40 flew by, then the M6, until we crossed the border and hit the mud tracks and wooden roads, plus it was pitch black, as the locals seemed not to have paid the electricity meter!

Soon we arrived at Buttonman's abode and he let us use his loo and not the wall this time. We entered the 'Fortress of Lettertude' and started to devour the feast he had laid on for his weary friends. Sadly Gavin made the fatal mistake of asking how he compiles the letter lists and all that guff. It was like a scene from a movie!

Stephen moved a picture across the wall and behind was a glass panel, he placed his thumb on the glass, the lights dimmed. In seconds armoured shutters came down across the windows, an alarm sounded, red lights started flashing, the coffee table swung round and in its place was a computer desk. Stephen sat behind the terminal and cracked his fingers, like a blur he waved them in front of the screen and...........................sorry you have to be there to see what happened next!

Anyway, after that we all piled into the Rad Wagon and set off for Dave, which wasn't a long drive so we soon sat in the middle of his street waiting for him to find us and off we went up the A9 aka The Road of DEATH!. 3 hours later and we pulled into Inverness but something was terribly wrong, it was SUNNY!

We booked into the hotel and made sure that we had rooms on the quieter riverside and then set off to Charlies for a slap up breakfast.
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/2.jpg)

After a quick wander around the town, which has a statue of a 'unicorn' near the hotel, we wandered over to the convention halls and had a look around. We then crashed out for a few hours before the bar.

Friday Night
We wandered into the bar and proceeded to drink, as the forum and guests turned up. Numerous shady characters started to fill the bar and many stories were told under strict embargo of death! It was great to see old friends and new ones as everyone mingled about.

Worlds 'legal' Dredd vs Zombie champ shows his mighty scores to lesser mortals
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/4.jpg)

Me and Stephen stress the importance of the names of Dredd's new sidekicks, with a bribe
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/6.jpg)

The Hell-Trek groupies had let themselves go since the last visit!
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/7.jpg)

By now the Thelma and Louise team had managed to travel up from the slums of Unemployedscroungeoffthesouthland and what an interesting duo these two are. Yes folks Pete wells of the 'Block of Shame' and Rob Stewart aka Gronk Guy but known to the world as the 2nd best 2000AD merchandise collector.
Little did we know what these two deviants would get up to after they booked into their 'double' room and hit the bar.
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/8.jpg)

Obviously this evening passed in a blur, plus you have seen the pictures from Buttonman's camera. Although I do recall the shame of not being allowed into any bar once midnight had passed. Bouncers telling us that their place was shut, yet it was heaving inside, Dog Deever later told me the reason, you Scots!
We popped into a kebab, pizza, burger place to grab some drink absorbing grub and saw this poor lad buy a 16" pizza and as he turned around to leave the bloody thing flew out of the end of the box and smashed onto the floor. Obviously we all pissed ourselves in front of him (Buttonman quite literally) and he went into a restrained talk about getting another for free (the box was faulty) and the last we heard was an offer of half price.
We all bought our substandard food and left to wander around for a little longer looking for booze to no avail so we decided to hit the sack. Speaking of such sleep enducing devices, during the weekend we became aware that Thelma and Louise had a dark secret and during the night became gimps, liking to lay next to each other doing some heavy breathing like Sith Lords, absolutely disgraceful.
TBC

It was interesting to note that in many ways Gronk Guy's collection is 2000AD stuff is superior to CF's, yet his unassuming nature and quiet determination mean he is the lesser-known collector.

He has no need to push himself into SFX or to bellow about his commissions. Instead, he quietly gathers rare items and, occasionally, distributes them to the needy.

Yes, he's sending me badges.

THE MAN IS A HERO! :D

And damn sexy too!

CF and fellow Hell Trekkers that account was really good...but like I said to CF in a tweet who is or was gonna be Donny Moomin?

Saturday

I awoke with the stiffest ankle ever and had no idea how it came to be, never mind it'll be imobile in its Judge Boot soon. I left Buttonman prostrate on his bed and wandered over to the con with Guy to get changed as he set up his stall but first I had to buy the new Planet Replicas merchandise. These consisted of fridge magnets of two sizes. Two badges and a keyring. Some of these items are from a limited edition run of 50 and look bloody gorgeous.

(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/15.jpg)
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/IMAG2253.jpg)

I broke the news to the world via Twitter and went in search of the Stormtroopers to get changed and have some fun. I spent a few hours beating the perps up and it was all quite legal so that was fun. Here I am telling Lynsey not to stand still in a walking zone!

(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/44.jpg)

After that I quickly got changed and wandered about the halls, only to miss the start of the auction. I think I was sorting out my commission with Colin MacNeil, which also stars Pete (no block) Wells and Buttonman (2nd best letter writer).

The Auction!!!

I wandered in and had missed over half an hour, damn! I had meant to watch 3 items and go for them only one hadn't turned up (Birth of Dante) and one was in the raffle (Richard Elson Dredd). There was only the most beautiful man in comics creation to go for, the Dog Soldiers page from Leigh Gallagher but had I missed my chance!
I sat down and watched the end of a bid for some non Dredd stuff and it was if the auctioneers had been waiting for me, as next up was Leigh's page. I sat silent as I observed the page move around the room to be shown to potential bidders. It opened slow, as each person wondered if they should bid or not. Puny amounts were offered and it was about to go at £45 until I offered £70. The auctioneer misheard and said £60, so I agreed with him to much laughter in the hall, let's see where we go from here! Naughty Guy raised it to £65 and so I came out with £75 and it was mine. Once I had won I shouted out "In your face Planet replicas" and walked out triumphant after another Shock and awe display!
This was not the end of the fun, I returned later right near the end to see what was going on. Down at the front Al Ewing was talking to Mike Carroll and Richmond and they came up with the last item.

THE BLOCK WAR BIDDING WAR

The item available was a Block to be named and name checked in a Dredd strip that Al was writing at this very moment!

The room went quiet, it was as if every 2000AD fan was about to witness history as Pete Wells finally could have his dream come true. He surely would destroy anybody that came between him and his dream. Remember folks this is a man who works for the public sector as a teacher (this means he is rich, has more holidays than working days and has a gold plated pension) Nobody in the room could outbid this unstoppable force of nature as he claimed his rightful crown.

The atmosphere was electric as even the Gods descended into the room to watch this true Block name hero unleash his might upon any mere mortal that would dare to stand in his way. I had sat right at the front and so could watch this horrible scene unfold. It seemed as if everyone in the room was looking at Pete, even the people who don't know about his block fixation.

An even quieter hush descended as the actioneer started us off, Pete was in like a flash and it slowly went back and forth as it climed ever higher. Whenever someone else bid, Pete came straight back at them with a cool and calm manner, as he knew this would be his no matter what anyone else thought.

All of a sudden, just as Pete thought it was his, a wee Irish fellow entered the battle but this fellow had no job, no pension but lots of holidays. This was no contest, Pete would wipe the floor with this upstart. In fact how dare a member of the Hell-Trekkers challenge the might that is the Pete Wells Block as he is on the road to immortality. Pete came back with a new bid but so did Gavin (yes folks it was Gavin Leahy).

The tension in the room was unbearable as the two fought it out. The price for this 2000AD fans dream rose ever higher, who would crack first, it had to be the wee man but no folks. As the price was with gavin all Pete had to do was outbid him again. Everyone was looking at Pete as he grimaced in his chair. I noticed beads of sweat on his brow and tears welling up in his eyes. Surely Pete would put another bid in!!!

Nothing, Pete sat still in his chair like a frightened rabbit that I see every night out on the roads. His dream was crashing down and we were all witnessing this sad tale. Come on Pete I thought, this can't end like this as we all know above anything else you NEED to be a block in a Dredd strip.

The auctioneers was calling an end to it and everyone waited for Pete to laugh it all off with his killer bid and have a laugh about it but no, he sat there with tears rolling down his cheeks and everyone laughing at him as it went to the wee man.

Yes everyone, in a future Dredd strip written by Al Ewing you will see and hear mentioned the block name

GAVIN LEAHY BLOCK

As we all walked out Gavin did a jig of delight and went to chat with Al as Pete crawled out holding a handerchief to his eyes. It was all over for him, how would he live the shame down but never mind all his friends were there to comfort him for the rest of the weekend  :lol: :lol: :lol:

Reading and reliving that has made me feel physically sick...

That is a powerful and moving story about the fall of Pete Wells Block - I'd have thrown in a tenner to the PWB fund, perhaps this one I'm using to mop up my tears.

I can only hope Al's story involves some Godzilla-like creature emerging from the Black Atlantic and dry-humping Gavin Leahy Block into rubble. ;)

That would definitely make it a memorable story, so lets hope so.

How much did it go for?

Quote from: Dunk! on 03 April, 2012, 04:15:02 PM
How much did it go for?

£10 less then Pete was willing to bid and nearly as much as I spent in the bar on the Friday night.

Yes the weekend was full of 2nd's...............

2nd best letter writer (or much further down if you did it properly and included visual references, remember a picture is worth a thousand words!)

2nd best 2000 AD collector, well the 3rd was there as well but I don't like to put them both down too much..  :-X

2nd best Block story, the Ex-Pete Well Block scunners comes to mind! Maybe a £10 a head story will come up about down and outs hanging around the Pete Wells Bus Shelter that smells of piss could be written?

But a good if not long weekend with some excellent pics, my favs are probably the Gavin Leahy (Block) soft shoe suffle pic and following knock out punch.....

Saturday continued

After the excitement of the auction everyone continued their own meanderings around the con, looking at such tables as below!

Dog Deever entices me over to buy a raffle ticket!
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/9.jpg)

Owen & Birthday boy Dark Jimbo man the Dr WTF/Zarjaz/FutureQuake tables
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/10.jpg)

I made a start on the second row of my A2 page of Dredd heads with Graeme Neil Reid but not before he managed to put a crease diagonally across the page. He was about to make a start on it when a young girl asked for a triceratops and Graeme picked up the pad and promptly dropped it on the floor and the crease appeared before our eyes. We stood there in complete silence, obviously I was planning a murder and how to get away with it but poor Graeme was killing himself with guilt but it's just one of those things. I'm gonna see the bod who frames my pages and get some expert advice, as luckily the paper is not broken.
Later on he said something which made me happy and he came up with this Dredd head for me.

(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/35GraemeNeilReid.jpg)

I also bought this page of Dredd from him.
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/39GraemeNeilReid.jpg)

Soon the day was over and it was time for the two Block War bidders to sort it out with a bare knuckle fight and as you have seen already Gavin won it but why not show some more pics from the action.

The towering presence of Pete seems to be too much for Gavins quick feet
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/13.jpg)

But all those years going to Big Fat Gypsy Weddings pays off in the end.
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/14.jpg)

After this spectacle we decided to not eat any food but start drinking. I stayed on the coke due to the drive back the next day but everyone else drank to celebrate the birth of Gavin Leahy Block.

The KTT losers decide that it's a fix and we should hunt down the winners Just realised this is Friday, as I'm drinking oops!
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/19.jpg)

We hit the town and head along to Weatherspoons with its cheap alcoholic beverages and grab a table near the stairs. A young lady falls down said stairs and I thrust my arm out to help her and hopefully grab a feel but fail. Not long after we notice a massive table so requisition that and await everyone else to arrive.

School teacher relaxes in public house
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/20.jpg)

I then decide to take pics of all sides of the table but someone is having way too much fun after a bad day!
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/21.jpg)
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/22.jpg)
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/23.jpg)
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/24.jpg)

Me and Buttonman notice that Dandontdare has finally realised that he loves Lady Thatcher as he kisses her on the lips.
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/25.jpg)

As always happens the Letter Gods meet and bamboozle us all with their eloquent dialogue
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/26.jpg)

Me and Gavin compare beards as the night draws to a close.
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/27.jpg)

During this evening many stories were told and many strange goings on happened. One story involved Gavin knocking on our door at around 03:00 trying to offer Ben Clark to Buttonman and myself for the night  :o

TBC

Now- absolutely no disrespect meant to the magnificent Mr Wells, and his frankly incredible blog, but my grud, all throughout that I was looking at those glorious pictures and thinking:

(http://i1165.photobucket.com/albums/q599/SteevTH/21.jpg)

:D

SBT

Kick a man while he's down...

The Assassination List (Part 2)

1....Gavin Leahy

2....SBT

Sunday

The day started at a more leisurely pace, compared to Saturday.

Here is the view looking out of our Penthouse apartment.
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/17.jpg)

And here is our luxury dwelling
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/28.jpg)

No Judge for me today as my ankle was still stiff and I had the drive in the evening, so I just enjoyed the chatting and sketching going on. We loaded the Rad Wagon up as Thelma and Louise loaded their pink mobile up and had a Hell-Trekker photo taken.
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/29.jpg)

We drove over and parked the vehicle against a skip for added security and entered the con. I then poceeded to obtain a few more sketches and pages of art.

Nigel Dobbyn
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/36NigelDobbyn.jpg)

John Higgins
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/37JohnHiggins.jpg)

John Higgins original page just look at the graphite on Dredd
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/40JohnHiggins.jpg)

Colin MacNeil
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/38ColinMacNeil.jpg)

Colin MacNeil - Judge Karyn
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/43ColinMacNeil.jpg)

Here's my victorious page from the auction by Leigh Gallagher
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/41LeighGallagher.jpg)

THE RAFFLE

The forum took over the rear left side of the seats and chatted about what they would choose if they actually managed to win anything. Most people going for the 2000AD stuff!
The first ticket was pulled out, damn none of us but a young lad from the front. The gentile sound of applause filled the air. The next ticket and another from the front, applause again. The third and it's the lad from the front again! A shout of fix fills the air and from then on as the same person wins 7 items and his friends win 4 and 3 between them. You can just imagine the boo's that filled the air, if anyone won a second item they were booed till they got back in their seat. It was hilarious!

All of a sudden Tom Proudfoot wins an item and he choose a page to the sound of cheers of delight from the forum, at last one of us has won something. Not soon after Tom wins again, still to cheers. He has in his hands a J for Jenny page and a Richard Elson Dredd page. Maybe our luck is turning! Drokk Buttonman wins and he chooses a Bunty annual  :o
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/32.jpg)

After some more booing the raffle is finally over and Rich and Vicky thank everyone for the weekend. At this stage the Mighty Tom Proudfoot hands over the Dredd page to me and says that I can have it. I have a tear in my eye and tell him that I always thought he was the greatest letter writer to Tharg, EVER!

Just a couple more things to do, including the Forum photo. Obviously by now the non hackers had left to go back home as you will see from certain empty places in the picture. Will Pete Wells ever manage to get in one of these, I think not!

The 2000AD forum gathering Hi-Ex! 2012
(http://i159.photobucket.com/albums/t136/commandoforces/Conventions/33.jpg)

All that was left was our sad goodbyes and the trip back home for the Hell-Trekkers. Again we stopped off at Buttonmans house for a little longer, as his good lady had prepared the biggest cake in the world to eat, for it was his Birthday. We ate a slice each as we listened to the superb free track from the Megazine and decided the track was crap but the cake was good.

We left at 17:00'ish and I arrived outside my door at 04:50'ish having driven a total of 1358 miles.

Roll on the next one  ;)

One last thing, poor Jim Campbell was snowed under with work and let me know in advance and still offered to pay for the fuel as well but the deposit was enough. What a top bloke  :thumbsup:

Any chance of a name call as to who is in forum photo?

Great art haul.

So all the cussin' was about block naming rights. Jeez, I thought it was something serious. (Ducks for cover)

Guess Pete's next commission is going to be some sort of a block war with a certain new block getting nuked.

I can exclusively reveal that the girl who asked for the Triceratops drawing was non other than the daughter of The Amstor Computer. He was therefore responsible for destroying your artwork and was laughing about how well his plan came off on Facebook (probably).

THE BASTARD  >:D >:D >:D

I knew I should have told her to sod off and get to the back of the queue (don't you teach your children manners Mr Amstor Computer  ;)) but my conservative values told me that I should always let women and children go first.

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/tritops.jpg)

Quote from: Large48 on 03 April, 2012, 08:07:02 PM
Any chance of a name call as to who is in forum photo?

Anything for you Guy...

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/GROUP.jpg)

Ben Clark is 'Satchmo' on the board.

Also: Gavin Leahy yesterday:
(http://www.plaidstallions.com/palitoy/am/am1.jpg)

Hi there,

I've met some you on Friday and Saturday. I had a good at HiEx and a good laugh too.

I only managed to get 1 sketch done for me. It was Judge Death by Graeme Neil Reid. Will post as as I get it scanned. Colin MacNeil signed my Chopper book in silver! Oo, shiny!

It was fun and I'll go up there again.

Now to scan that Judge Death...

Here's a sketch from Graeme Neil Reid.

Judge Death

Quote from: COMMANDO FORCES on 03 April, 2012, 08:53:21 PM
THE BASTARD  >:D >:D >:D

I knew I should have told her to sod off and get to the back of the queue (don't you teach your children manners Mr Amstor Computer  ;)) but my conservative values told me that I should always let women and children go first.

Erk! No laughing on Facebook here! I do remember Graeme rushing back and forward looking panicked after Rhiannon asked for a sketch, but I didn't realise what had happened - I thought it was to do with the chap before who Graeme had sketched for (the ink he was using had seeped through the sketchbook page and through the backing page he'd used and on to the next page in the book, IIRC).

Guilt-stricken now :-(

hahahaha. I managed to avoid the forum photo shoot!
Massive props to Gav who gave me his copy of Crossed (Ennis/Burrows)
I'm due you a sketch Gav.
And Ben who gave me the second Mike Neville graphic Novel from Magic Beans.

Got a new piccy for my avatar by Colin MacNeil (will post it up once it's scanned) and steal of the con... an exclusive Buttonman sketch. I'll post them once I get em scanned.

Blame me for the raffle debacle- I was selling the tickets- lord  how I tried to fix it so I would win the Strontium Dog 'Traitor To His Kind' GN, but alas- I was rubbish.

Still, how I laughed at the thought of some poor sap going away with the dusty bin of raffle prizes- the Bunty Annual.

Great un all round again- didn''t really get to much of the talks- next year I will. There IS going to be a next year, right?

Quote from: Dog Deever on 03 April, 2012, 11:27:33 PM

Still, how I laughed at the thought of some poor sap going away with the dusty bin of raffle prizes- the Bunty Annual.

You can laugh but spare a thought for my poor wife who's getting a surprise for Christmas. (and a Bunty book).

Hehehehe...
and to prove there was no fixing... I won fuck all!

To be fair the guy who won 7 times bought £30 worth of tickets. Some unnamed military type only bought 1. I bought £5 worth and got a £7.99 book in return - a mighty profit!

Top tales guys!

(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/GROUP.jpg)

Can I just say right now, that if the shitbags in this photo start meeting with fatal, yet somehow fitting accidents (Leahy - huge block falls on his head, Burdis - run over by a minibus, Watson - death by a million paper cuts, Clemments & Stonebridge - blown up by a highly explosive compound, Carroll - beaten to death with a gavel, Ewing- a typewriter up his arse, etc.) that it wasn't me.

No siree, the thought never crossed my fragile, recently damaged mind...

BTW - does anyone know who the bloke on the table beside Graeme Reid was? He was selling boxes of comics and mags, including a load of old issues of Retro Gamer and I meant to ask him what he was looking for for the back issues and completely forgot...

Hi, Amstor. I'm very sorry I didn't know it was you!

As for next door to Graeme, on the left (your left, not his) was Ross Hendry. On the right was Jeremy Briggs. Jeremy was the guy with glasses. Ping me an email address and tell me which sinister individual you're keen to contact and I'll ask them to email you.

Colin MacNeil's Dog Deever:

(http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h134/Dog_Deever/CCF04042012_00000.jpg)

Quote from: Dog Deever on 04 April, 2012, 03:23:00 PM
Colin MacNeil's Dog Deever:

(http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h134/Dog_Deever/CCF04042012_00000.jpg)

That's awesome work

he's caught that glean in your eye DD!  ;)

Similar to previous years, Rich 'the witch' has manage to control the weather, perfect for Hi-Ex then this:

(http://images.mirror.co.uk/upl/dailyrecord3/apr2012/8/8/scottish-snow-snaps-set-april-3rd-image-4-154132378.jpg)

how does he do it? perhaps it was Vicky's voice he sacrificed in exchange!!

Quote from: Proudhuff on 04 April, 2012, 04:37:26 PMhow does he do it? perhaps it was Vicky's voice he sacrificed in exchange!!

The man is a monster, so it wouldn't surprise me, although I think he also threw in Pete Wells' dreams and dignity as garnish ;)

Quote from: Emperor on 04 April, 2012, 04:40:27 PM

Quote from: Proudhuff on 04 April, 2012, 04:37:26 PMhow does he do it? perhaps it was Vicky's voice he sacrificed in exchange!!

The man is a monster, so it wouldn't surprise me, although I think he also threw in Pete Wells' dreams and dignity as garnish ;)

I can neither confirm or deny this.

It was a trade off with the suit...............

Dog Deever, so you had the first GN for Crossed, some bugger had it before I got to that stall.  :(

Quote from: Pete Wells on 04 April, 2012, 09:24:02 AM

Can I just say right now, that if the shitbags in this photo start meeting with fatal, yet somehow fitting accidents (Leahy - huge block falls on his head, Burdis - run over by a minibus, Watson - death by a million paper cuts, Clemments & Stonebridge - blown up by a highly explosive compound, Carroll - beaten to death with a gavel, Ewing- a typewriter up his arse, etc.) that it wasn't me.

No siree, the thought never crossed my fragile, recently damaged mind...

I believe you...

Quote from: johnjowens on 03 April, 2012, 11:11:11 PM
Here's a sketch from Graeme Neil Reid.

Judge Death

that's a thing of beauty!

Quote from: Bat King on 04 April, 2012, 09:33:42 PM

Quote from: Pete Wells on 04 April, 2012, 09:24:02 AM

Can I just say right now, that if the shitbags in this photo start meeting with fatal, yet somehow fitting accidents (Leahy - huge block falls on his head, Burdis - run over by a minibus, Watson - death by a million paper cuts, Clemments & Stonebridge - blown up by a highly explosive compound, Carroll - beaten to death with a gavel, Ewing- a typewriter up his arse, etc.) that it wasn't me.

No siree, the thought never crossed my fragile, recently damaged mind...

But thousands wouldn't....?

I believe you...

Not going to suggest anyone send Judge Integra to look into it...

and the convention sketch you all wanted but none of you got... Buttonman's

(http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h134/Dog_Deever/ButtonSketch2.jpg)

I love the fact that Buttman actually laminated that pic  :lol:

hahaha- yeah!

A couple of postings on Hi-Ex over on the FP blog:

http://forbiddenplanet.co.uk/blog/2012/things-i-learned-at-hi-ex/
http://forbiddenplanet.co.uk/blog/2012/hi-ex-2012-comics-fun-in-the-sunny-scottish-highlands/

Quote from: Proudhuff on 05 April, 2012, 12:38:26 PM
I love the fact that Buttman actually laminated that pic  :lol:

Children of the future will need some documentation of the key cultural highpoints of this benighted century.

Quote from: Pete Wells on 04 April, 2012, 09:24:02 AM
(http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c118/button71/GROUP.jpg)

Can I just say right now, that if the shitbags in this photo start meeting with fatal, yet somehow fitting accidents (Leahy - huge block falls on his head, Burdis - run over by a minibus, Watson - death by a million paper cuts, Clemments & Stonebridge - blown up by a highly explosive compound, Carroll - beaten to death with a gavel, Ewing- a typewriter up his arse, etc.) that it wasn't me.

No siree, the thought never crossed my fragile, recently damaged mind...

Can I just point out that very very few of these people post here now  :o

Now that is spooky!

looks like Mr Wells is heading up to the Glasgow comic con to finish the job...

looking at that pic, anyone know what 'John Vaughn' is up to these days? and for that matter the charming Ben 'Stringer Bell' Clark?

I know what Dave Thomson is doing- drawing up a storm! :)