Anthony Head

BUFFY star Anthony Stewart Head was in Glasgow yesterday, helping raise cash for the victims of the Maryhill blast.

Head, who played Rupert Giles in the cult sci-fi series, met fans at the city’s Thistle Hotel.

The actor, who is appearing in the new series of Monarch of the Glen, was the star speaker at a sci-fi convention organised by Glasgow company Valiant to raise cash for the Grovepark memorial fund.

The Buffy star was joined by Paul Darrow, who played Avon in sci-fi show Blake’s 7, and veteran sci-fi actor Michael Sheard, best known for his role as Mr Bronson in Grange Hill.

Many at the convention dressed as sci-fi characters, including Tomb Raider star Lara Croft and Superwoman.

David Wharton, owner of Valiant, said:"When I heard about what happened in Maryhill I wanted to do something to help.

"We’re happy to be able to contribute anything to help the people affected by the explosion."

The stars took part in a question and answer session with fans before signing autographs.

The Grovepark memorial fund was set up by Glasgow City Council to help those affected by the explosion in the ICL Plastics factory in May.

Nine people died in the blast and more than 40 were injured.