SUPERHEROES and villains are returning to town to offer some comic relief. Swindon has gone three years without a comic book store but that is about to change.

Comic fanatics Steve Causer and Vince Mancari are setting up a treasure trove for like-minded enthusiasts.

And the dynamic duo are giving members of the public a chance to name the store, which they hope to open on September 9.

Mr Causer said: "We're setting it up as a place for the fans in Swindon.

"It's the first step in getting them involved and passionate in what we' re trying to do."

Mr Mancari added: "We have been toying with names for a while now and although we originally settled on Livewire Comics, it was our intention to look at how best to make the shop stand at the heart of Swindon and to be for the comic book fans."

Mr Causer says he wants the shop to help form a community of comic-lovers in Swindon.

He said: "My business partner used to run the previous shop, Into The Void, before it shut down.

"So he knows there are lots of passionate people who are into comics.

"Once we had the idea it was just a question of timing."

One of the two floors of the building in Morley Street will be devoted to selling comics, but the plans for the top floor are being kept under wraps for the time being.

"One of other ways we're trying to get the customers involved is by having a membership scheme, where we will give them accounts so they can order comics with us.

Added Mr Causer: "We'll also have various offers if they sign up."

The shop will not focus solely on comics. The owners plan to have a comic paperback library, and the store will also stock film and fantasy memorabilia.

Mr Causer said: "We see everybody in Swindon as a potential customer.

"This is because we are not just about comic books but also film and TV memorabilia, books, games and toys."

Win £100 worth of free comics

To enter the shop-naming competition email your age, address and contact details to name@nameourcomicshop.co.uk or write to: Comic Shop, 28 Morley Street, Swindon, SN1 1SG.

The winner will receive £100 worth of free comics. For more information go to www.nameourcomicshop.co.uk