Paul McGann star attraction at Newcastle Dr Who convention

Nov 16 2009 by Rob Pattinson, The Journal

IF the waistcoats, flowing cloaks and motif-knitted jumpers failed to provide a big enough clue, the Dalek parked in the corner left no doubt - this was a Doctor Who convention.

More than 300 followers of the Doctor descended on Seaton Burn's Holiday Inn for two days of reminiscence, regalia and best of all, a real-life time lord.

Actor Paul McGann – the eighth Doctor – was the star attraction of the annual weekend-long event.

Yesterday sci-fi fans from across the country and region waited eagerly to meet him. Paul told The Journal he still marvels at the scale of enthusiasm viewers have for Dr Who. He said: “It was unexpected, the whole thing surprised me. I was saying this to one of my sons, after he joined us on one of the audio recordings for just a couple of days. I said as long as you live, lad, people will be asking you about it. Whether you’re in it for a minute, or a day, or a week, you’re in it. You’ll always be in it.

“I was surprised by the reaction fans give you, but not as surprised as Christopher Ecclestone. He once said to me, ‘I knew it was popular, but I didn’t know it was this popular.’”

After an indifferent reaction to his 1996 outing as the Doctor, intended to snare the lucrative North American market, the Liverpool-born actor has found the status of adoration enjoyed by previous doctors by developing his character in audio recordings.

Fans say their growing fondness for his interpretation of the role is down to continuity, which they also cite as the secret of the brand’s success.

Exam invigilator and retired teacher Trevor Hall, 62, of South Gosforth, Newcastle, said: “I’m a Doctor Who fan, In fact I’d say I’m a ‘completist’. I have a complete collection of all the series and memorabilia. I’ve been a fan for 43 years. I love the continuity of the series. I’ve always loved sci-fi, but Doctor Who has always been able to adapt with the times. You can watch it back over the years and remember how it was.

“While I wasn’t a fan of Paul McGann’s first outing as the Doctor, he’s become very popular through the audio recordings he has done. That’s the whole key to the appeal. You have time to develop the character, which is what he has done now.”

Artefacts from filming, prosthetic alien masks, and mock-ups of props were found lurking in every corner of the hotel.

Q&A sessions, lectures and the chance to have your photo taken with one of the stars were all on offer to delegates.

Meanwhile, the show goes on. Last night, Dr Who was back on the BBC, as the 10th Doctor, David Tennant, prepares to make way for the 11th, Matt Smith.