A VOLUNTEER flew thousands of miles from New Zealand to help at a popular pop-culture event in Colchester.
Jason Neave, 57, travelled from Dunedin, on New Zealand’s South Island, to volunteer at this year’s Invasion Colchester.
The 14th edition of Invasion Colchester took place in the city centre on Saturday and was organised by Ace Comics, in Culver Street East.
The popular event was supported by 50 volunteers and 150 official cosplayers.
Money raised will support St Helena Hospice, Colchester and Ipswich Hospitals Charity, and North East Essex Mind.
Jason moved to New Zealand 37 years ago from Colchester but his parents still live here. He tries to return to the city every couple of years.
He was a visitor at last year’s event with his son and later spoke to organisers.
Jason said: “Last year I was here with my son just as a visitor.
"I was out in the evening and caught up with the organiser Kerrie.”
“I said if I was here next year, I’d love to come give you guys a hand.”
His duties included carrying items, helping set up in the morning and checking that cosplayers displaying in the city centre were ready.
Mr Neave enjoyed seeing cosplayers dressed in steampunk, Batman and Star Wars costumes.
He said: “I had a great day. Coming together with like-minded people for three great charities - you can’t beat that can you really."
“The crew has been fantastic."
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