Now in its fifth year, the city’s only not-for-profit family friendly pop culture, comic and movie convention has already raised £250,276 for CHAS since 2016, a highlight of last year’s event being Peter Capaldi’s rendition of the David Bowie classic Starman for fans and his refusal to leave the venue until he had met every last fan, raising £62,000 for CHAS,
Northern Ireland’s Ian Beattie, best known for his roles as Antigonas in Oliver Stone’s film Alexander, and as Ser Meryn Trant in the HBO series Game of Thrones will be hoping he can match that when he donates 100% of his autograph fees to the children’s charity after his appearances on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 February,
Beattie will be joined at this year’s three-day event by Harry Potter’s David Bradley, Doctor Who legend Colin Baker and many more from the worlds of Star Wars, Jurassic World and beyond.
Beattie, who was confirmed in the role of Ser Meryn Trant, a member of the Kingsguard under King Joffrey, in 2010, initially appeared in Game of Thrones as a guest in the first season but soon returned in the second, third, fourth and fifth seasons, becoming a character viewers loved to hate.
He says, “I have heard that CHAS do tremendous work for children, young people and families who are facing the unimaginable all over Scotland and I’m proud they have invited me to my first ever fan event in Edinburgh. I can’t wait to attend Capital Sci-fi Con.”
Founder of Capital Sci-Fi Con, Keith Armour, adds, “Once more, I’m amazed by the shear generosity of some of our guests. The idea that Ian wishes to attend Capital Sci-Fi Con and donate all money raised by autographs to CHAS speaks words for the sort of man he is. Being a big fan of Game of Thrones myself, I’m honoured to have Ian join us and look forward to shaking his hand and thanking him in person.”
Laura Campbell of CHAS, continues, “We’re so excited that Ian will be attending Capital Sci-Fi Con 2020, the latest Game of Thrones guest that Keith and his team have successfully brought to Scotland in the five years since the event first kicked off. Ian’s generosity of donating his whole autograph fee means a great deal to the charity and is a terrific gesture for the families who receive our care, several of whom enjoy attending the event and cutting loose for the weekend.
“Inclusivity, affordability and accessibility are crucial to us, it has been heartening to see people from different corners of the globe, as well as the Scottish science fiction community, united by this phenomenal event.”
Last year, nearly 10,000 attended the convention, which is organised for fans by fans. As well as special guest from the worlds of TV and film, the event includes cosplayers, talks, comic book artists and memorabilia stalls.
Interactive replica prop sets from Batman, Star Trek, Jaws, Gremlins ET will also feature. Additional guests and features will be announced in the run up to opening day on Friday 14 February.
CHAS cares for families through two hospices, Rachel House in Kinross and Robin House in Balloch and via the CHAS at Home service, which delivers tailored palliative and respite care to families across the whole of Scotland.
Tickets for this years event are available to buy now from www.capitalscificon.co.uk/tickets.html with a suggested donation of £15 for Beattie’s autograph.
