Fans flock to celebrate with Doctor Who stars

Jenna Coleman, who plays 'Clara Oswald' in 'Doctor Who' at the 'Doctor Who 50th Celebration' event. Picture: Getty

About 24,000 people are expected through the doors of the Excel centre in London over the weekend for the Official 50th Celebration.

A throng of doctors – in fancy dress from every era throughout the decades have – rubbed shoulders with tinfoil cybermen, daleks and endless aliens.

The BBC has heavily promoted the special 80-minute episode, starring current Doctor, Matt Smith, his assistant, played by Jenna Coleman, and the Doctor’s predecessor, Scottish actor David Tennant, all of whom ware involved as part of the celebrations.

Smith and Tennant appeared on BBC One’s Graham Norton Show last night to talk about the historic moment in the cult show’s history.

Smith has told how nothing can prepare Scots actor Peter Capaldi, famous for playing Malcolm Tucker in The Thick of It, for the job of taking on the prestigious role of the Time Lord, who now has a worldwide following.

The outgoing star, who leaves the show at Christmas, said: “I’ve just said ‘Have a good time, mate’. He’ll be great – Peter will hit the ground running and keep flying.”

Mr Smith said he was looking forward to bowing out and said that show boss Steven Moffat had given him a great exit which is being kept top secret from fans.

Show fan Mike Green, who dressed as David Tennant’s Dr Who, was one of the crowd at the Excel centre. He said: “It’s taken a long time to get the outfit right and I wouldn’t like to say what it cost but I’m on my fifth suit.”

The 29-year-old from Bedford, added: “There is a great social scene and you meet up with friends who dress up as well and meet new people. Its a real community.”

A number of retailers tried to get in on the Doctor Who act, including the Royal Mail which promoted anniversary stamps, and baker Greggs which offered fish fingers and custard in honour of the 11th Doctor’s unique culinary tastes.