When the idea of a comic book reviews magazine popped into Joel Meadows' head, he thought it would be a good way of exercising his passion and hobby.
But 21 years later, Tripwire has grown from a publication of just 200 hand-made copies to an annual release that sells more than 6,000 editions worldwide.
And on the anniversary of its creation, Hendon-based Joel is looking to put together a commemorative annual for fans of the now-glossy magazine he still puts together in his living room.
The 40-year-old needs to raise £10,000 and is running a Kickstarter campaign online, which fans can log on to and contribute some cash in exchange for classic editions of the magazine.
Joel, of Sunningfield Crescent, said: “I want to be looking forward as well as back and this will hopefully give the readers a chance to contribute.
“It has given me a lot of satisfaction over the last 21 years. I have built up a lot of friendships over the decades and I still enjoy it.”
Joel has interviewed big names from the comic book world, including Batman: The Dark Knight writer Frank Miller and Guillermo Del Toro, perhaps most commonly known for directing the film Pan’s Labyrinth.
The freelance journalist compiles each edition with the help of six or so contributors in the United States and says it is an exciting time for fans of the comic genre.
He said: “It is such a major part of cultural life at the moment, with the films being created and the internet allowing greater access – there are no barriers for fans.
“The material is so diverse – it is a golden age and we try to encapsulate that with the magazine.”
Joel has until April 14 to gather all of the £10,000 he needs to create the annual. To contribute, visit the webpage here.
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