Hot Trends: Here's your first look at Guardians Of The Galaxy

Chris Pratt and Zoe Saldana are among those taking their place in the Guardians Of The Galaxy line-up (Picture: Disney/Marvel)

Marvel fans have been given a New Year treat with the release of the first photo from forthcoming blockbuster Guardians Of The Galaxy.

The 'early sneek peek' of the movie was released by Marvel on to their Twitter page on New Year's Eve - as well as being tweeted by director James Gunn - with the comic book giants asking 'What do you think of the line-up, fans?'

However those hoping for a glimpse of former Doctor Who star Karen Gillan are likely to be disappointed, since she is nowhere to be seen in the snap.

Instead it offers a first look at the likes of Chris Pratt's character Peter Quill - aka Starlord - as well as Drax, played by Dave Bautista, and Zoe Saldana's Gamora.

Karen Gillan has shaved her head for her role as the film's space pirate Nebula (Picture: Getty Images)

Rocky The Raccoon - played by the voice of Bradley Cooper - and Vin Diesel-voiced character Groot also put in an appearance.

Meanwhile Disney have also released the official synopsis for the blockbuster - due for release on August 1.

According to the studio the action revolves around a 'mysterious orb' coveted by 'powerful villain' Ronan (Lee Pace) - and Quill's attempts to retrieve it with a little help from his galaxian rivals.

A shaven-headed Gillan plays space pirate Nebula in the film, which also stars Benicio del Toro and John C Reilly.