Academic lectures, documentary screenings and public debates designed to shine a light on the world of the urban crime-fighter are all part of the event. Many US cities have resident superheroes, and far from being a joke, their exploits often place them in conflict with both the underworld and the authorities.

The Superhero Symposium also includes the chance for visitors to test their own special powers with a range of interactive exhibits – and to equip themselves with merchandise from New York's famous Brooklyn Superhero Supply Co, where particle guns and vapour-blasters come as standard, and antimatter is available in five-litre cans.

Aside from all the sci-fi action you can shake a cosmic thruster at, the event, organised to celebrate the launch of the world's fastest smartphone, the Huawei Ascend P2, will investigate the role of the superhero in modern society, the differences between amateur law-enforcers and vigilantes, and the role of technology in fighting crime.

The Huawei Superpowers Symposium will be open to visitors from 11:30am–10:30pm on Wednesday, 10th July. To reserve a place, please RSVP: huawei@wcommunications.co.uk

Here is a link to the listing for the event - www.whatshappening.co.uk/london/events/the-huawei-superpowers-symposium/...