Dads across Kent are beginning to sense something, a presence they’ve not felt since... perhaps last year?

One of the county's largest sci-fi festivals will return to Herne Bay for the second time, with crowds of up to 8,000 expected for Sci-fi by the SeaQuel this Father’s Day, June 15.

BayPromoTeam has been preparing the event for months, working hard to bring together top celebrities, movie props and gadgets, and action-packed activities for all the family.

Organiser Gerald McCarthy said major celebrities have been confirmed.

He said: “There’s lots to look forward to. We’ve got celebrities like former Doctor Who actors Paul McGann and Colin Baker, Darth Vader actor David Prowse, Chris Barrie and Hattie Hayridge from Red Dwarf.

“We’ve also got loads of props from sci-fi movies and television programmes. Jamie Anderson, son of Gerry Anderson, is bringing along Thunderbirds puppets.

“My personal favourite will be the 1966 Batmobile. I had the Corby toy as a kid and always dreamt I would own one. We’ve got props from Ghostbusters, Transformers, Doctor Who and a few more surprises too.”

There will also be a variety of food and drink available, including a barbecue, hog-roast and vegetarian options too.

Mr McCarthy has also arranged for live musicians to play.

He believes Herne Bay has a unique sci-fi connection because of its links to the original Doctor Who writer Anthony Coburn and movie prop maker Jason Onion.

He said: “We’ve got people with incredible collections, so we want them to bring their stuff out of their sheds to where they are supposed to be. This is a real chance to treat your dad on Father’s Day.”

It will be held on the playing fields of Herne Bay Junior School this Sunday, June 15. Adult tickets for the not-for-profit event cost £6 and £4 for children.

Tickets can be bought from KidzKorner, Peter’s Produce, the Activity Box and Nutcutter’s in Herne Bay. They can also be found online at www.baypromoteam.ticketsource.co.uk.