View source for Who's threatening to start doctoring with time in down?

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| publication = The News Letter
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| date = 1998-01-05
| author = Gordon Adair
| pages = 13 
| language = English
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| categories = conventions
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THE strange wailing theme music alone was enough to send legions of children diving for relative safety behind the sofa.

Full reserves of courage had to be summoned up for them to peep tentatively out and actually catch a glimpse of the fearful monsters, always intent as they were on world domination.

It was, of course, Doctor Who, the classic BBC programme which still has the distinction of being the world's longest-running science fiction series. 

While the oft-reconstructed Doctor last zipped off in his Tardis as long ago as 1989, his popularity has, like the man himself, easily survived the ravages of time.

Now, Ulster enthusiasts will have the chance to see in the flesh (or perhaps even metal) those same creatures who caused so much trepidation all those years ago.

Bangor-based Colin Dowling, a self-confessed Doctor Who fanatic, has organised Ireland's first Doctor Who convention.

Former Doctor Colin Baker will top the bill, along with assistants Deborah Watling (Victoria) and Sophie Aldred (Ace).

Conventions centred around the time-travelling hero are a regular occurrence in Great Britain and Colin has been to five this year.

He hopes that the Bangor event will give scores of fans their first opportunity to experience the unique atmosphere.

"The Irish fans deserve to meet their icons just as much as any other fans."

Colin has met every Doctor since John Pertwee.

He believes that the BBC show has consistently set the standards for science fiction programmes throughout the world.

"With all the hype about Star Trek and Star Wars and all the American science fiction, people tend to forget that the biggest, longest and probably best sci -fi show was a British effort."

With his brother, Graeme, the 27-year-old factory worker has organised a host of activities for the day.

Unlike, the much-photographed Trekkies, Doctor Who fans tend to spurn costumes but such memorable characters as K9, the Cybermen and the legendary Daleks will be on hand, moving among the delegates, while there will be ample opportunity to question Colin Baker, the sixth incarnation of the Doctor.

Colin said that Baker had no hesitation in saying 'yes' when asked if he would come to the Province.

"He said he would be honoured to attend, being that it was Ireland's first show.

"All the guests I have asked have just jumped at the chance."

Colin produces a Doctor Who fanzine called Type 40.

He said that he hopes to attract 150-200 guests to the convention which would will be informal and intimate.

If it is a success, he wants to make it an annual event with other Doctors leaping across time and space to visit in future years.

Anyone interested in attending the convention, in Bangor's Royal Hotel on February 28, can contact Colin on Bangor (01247) 273241.

Spelling correction: Jon Pertwee

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