Sci-fi fans are generally fairly mild-mannered folk. But don’t get them angry. You wouldn’t like them when they’re angry. Unfortunately, there was lots of anger in Norwich, UK, over the weekend, when fans of “Doctor Who” and “Star Wars” squared off outside a convention — and yes, “the force” was called. The police force.
According to Norwich Evening News 24, it all started at the 4th Norwich Sci-Fi and Film Convention on Sunday, which was hosted by the Norwich “Star Wars” Club UK and Hollywood Cinemas. The convention refused entry to members of the Norwich Sci-Fi Club by the members of the Norwich “Star Wars” Club, reportedly after the treasurer of the Sci-Fi Club asked a “Doctor Who” actor for an autograph.
Sci-Fi Club treasurer Jim Poole was asked to leave after requesting the autograph, and he and organizer Richard Walker reportedly had words inside before taking it outdoors.
It’s unclear why this was a flashpoint — Walker later told Evening News 24 that the visitors had been trying to undermine the convention with Facebook comments — but it led to over a dozen fans (many dressed in costume) facing off outside the venue.
There were no light saber and sonic screwdriver duels, but police did respond to a report that a man was being assaulted. After investigating and reviewing closed-circuit footage, police determined no assault had taken place. A spokesperson told the News that “the two rival groups were spoken to and advised to keep out of each other’s way.”
Despite the incident, Walker called the event “a very successful day.”
At least no one had to go to the dark side.
according to today.com
