Fans and guests came together to celebrate 30 years of Terrahawks on Saturday 12th October, at the Holiday Inn, Maidenhead.

Although smaller in scale than previous conventions, Expect the Unexpected nevertheless contained all the much-loved elements of a Fanderson convention – fascinating interviews, unique screenings, great merchandise, top models and props on display and a wonderful chance for fans to socialise and talk to guests.

Expect the Unexpected definitely lived up to its title thanks to the last-minute appearance of three guests who kindly volunteered to attend the event. Floor puppeteer Judy Preece and Art Director Gary Tomkins were joined by Driver Julian Bell and Director Tony Bell. Later in the day, Visual Effects Director Steven Begg, Visual Effects Technician Terry Adlam and Director Mark Woollard were joined by Props Buyer Kaye Moss. There was also an interview and slideshow with modelmakers John Lee and Steven Woodcock, with a second slideshow from Terry Adlam. Handled by FAB magazine co-editor Ian Fryer, the interviews evoked fond memories of the making of the series and conveyed a real sense of a family atmosphere within the production team.

During the packed schedule, fans also managed to fit in time to check out an amazing collection of replica and original models, including an original Kate Kestrel puppet head and Zelda’s ‘Rhino’ ship! Fanderson Sales was also present with not one but two sales items for fans to purchase for the first time. Those who didn’t attend will have to wait a little longer!

There were screenings of Fanderson’s specially-commissioned episodes in HD, remastered by BBC Resources and Kindred Productions. The first of these was the compilation episode Ma’s Monsters, followed by Two for the Price of One, which marks the introduction of Cy-Star’s schizophrenic child, It-Star.

The day’s interviews were rounded off with Jamie Anderson updating everyone on the progress of various Anderson legacy projects and the latest on the hugely successful Gemini Force One Kickstarter campaign.

The evening’s entertainment focused on a TV Dinners quiz that stretched fans’ knowledge of classic TV all the way. The quiz was deftly compered by Fanderson chairman Nick Williams, and accompanied by a hot ‘take-away-style’ buffet. The winners were rewarded by Zelda’s Cubes, full of 80s treats to bring Earth to its knees!

All in all, it was a relaxed and friendly event that gave fans the chance to celebrate a series anniversary in a unique way. Happy Birthday, Terrahawks!

 Photos courtesy of Mark Simpson Wedge