This time last week I was preparing for AA.  No not Alcoholics Anonymous (he says every time) but Auto Assembly.  The UK's premier Transformers Convention.  Case, check, Prints, check, Sketch paper, check, Alcohol, check.  Well the bar is mighty expensive!

Yes it is the AA convention where you pack your own alcohol.  Then again what do you expect when you hold a convention at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole Hotel.  I am not quite sure if the Hotel staff quite knew what to expect.  Hundreds of Transformers fans descended upon them for the 3 day event.  From the 9th August to the 11th, the Business class and pilots suits disappeared under a rainbow of assorted Transformers T-shirts.  With the occasional cosplay Optimus Prime waiting for service at the bar.

The event proper, started at 11.00 on the saturday morning where (us guests) had to do the walk of shame.  Yes I do cringe each time.  Then I think the organisers like that.  Waiting out back to discover what theme music you will be walking out to.  I was under threat of "Im a love man" by Otis Reading.  Though to my great relief, it was simply the Cantana music from the Star Wars bar. (Im sensing a theme here)


Once settled in I soon found I became booked up for sketches on the Saturday, for the entire weekend.  I think a pre-sketch list may be a good idea for any future events!


My highlight of the weekend came on the Saturday night.  Where the Cosplayers came out to play.  The incredible opulent surroundings served all those crazy fools well.  Not only did they come out in force, but also in high quality too. With so many good costumes the judges made a wise desicon and served an excellent curve-ball by announcing the winner to be the swarm of scraplets.  (You really have to see it to understand.:)

The great thing I find about Auto Assembly is the atmosphere. I do a lot of big commercial shows. With a lot of money behind them. The difference with AA is the family feel. Everyone that comes together, thats works so hard by giving their time up to create something great. This show does not have big money backers, but instead a lot of people with a lot of heart who enjoy their hobby.  Everyone that is involved, the organisers, volunteers, fans, collectors, and even the guests. All play a small in making the show what it is.

A whole lot of fun.

As the Transfans say "Till all are one"