THE organisers of a convention in Basingstoke have confirmed the event will run next year, adding that they are 'committed to making substantial improvements'.
Basingstoke Comic Con, which was held at Hampshire Court Hotel from May 10 to 12, was attended by thousands of people keen to see celebrities including Jason Momoa, Richard Armitage and Richard Dean Anderson.
However, attendees criticised long queues, poor organisation and a lack of accessibility at the event.
READ MORE: Basingstoke Comic Con: Organisers release a statement
Organiser Jane Lowther responded, saying they were 'deeply sorry' and 'heartbroken' by the weekend's events.
Now, the event has confirmed its return which promises to be better than ever before. The convention will be held at Newbury Racecourse on September 13 and 14, 2025, a venue which will 'address many of the concerns raised'.
In a statement posted on social media, Basingstoke Comic Con says they 'acknowledge the significant issues that occurred during our previous event and sincerely apologise for the disappointment and frustration experienced by our attendees'.
The organisers said they have taken feedback 'seriously' and are 'committed to making substantial improvements' ahead of next year's event.
The statement continued: "We’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has sent positive messages of support and those spurring us on to put on another, much-improved event.
"We’re not giving up and whilst scepticism by some is expected and understood, our commitment to putting on a Comic-Con you all deserve is stronger than ever before."
The new venue will allow for improved capacity management with 'better crowd control' and 'much-improved' communication, in addition to enhanced accessibility, amenities including air conditioning and stronger transport links, according to the statement.
SEE ALSO: PHOTOS: Our favourite 13 costumes from Basingstoke Comic Con
Addressing previous concerns, Ms Lowther said the speed of check-in will be improved, in addition to a 'new queue system to reduce wait times' and 'improve the overall experience'.
To staff the event, the organisers will work with a 'professional event staffing agency' to ensure 'adequate and well-trained personnel'.
Schedules will also be reviewed to ensure the offerings are 'achievable within the event' and communication will be improved through a 'real-time update system for attendees via on-site screens'.
Ms Lowther has reassured attendees that the conventions team are 'committed to delivering an exceptional experience at Newbury Racecourse'.
The statement concludes: "We value your trust and support as we work to rebuild confidence in our events. We look forward to welcoming you to a new and improved Comic Con experience."
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