A DOCTOR Who convention due to take place this weekend t(August 23/24) to coincide with the regeneration of the new Doctor was cancelled at the last minute.

Around 35 people directly linked with the show, including actors, writers and script editors, were lined up to appear at the Shadow Proclamation convention in Middlesbrough yesterday (Saturday) and today (Sunday).

The event was organised by life-long fan and owner of Generation Productions, Graeme Parry, from Ormesby, Middlesbrough, who apologised for pulling the plug on Friday due to “a range of issues.”

Actors Paul McGann (eighth incarnation), Colin Baker (sixth incarnation) along with companions including Sophie Aldred and Louise Jameson were originally lined up to appear alongside a who’s who of famous faces from the iconic BBC science-fiction show which first aired 51 years ago.

A note posted on Friday on the front door of Middlesbrough Town Hall, which was due to host the event, said: “We are disappointed to confirm the Doctor Who convention this weekend has been cancelled by organisers. Those who purchased tickets through the town hall will be contacted as soon as possible to discuss refund arrangements.”

Tickets ranged from £50 to £200 for the gathering designed to coincide with the tv show returning to BBC1, starring Peter Capaldi as the new Doctor.

Mr Parry used his website, www.theshadowproclamation, to inform fans of the decision.“I am posting this to let you all know of the sad news that we are having to cancel the event completely due to a range of issues.

Thanks for all your help and understanding. I am extremely sorry we have had to do this at the last minute, regrettably I felt this was the best and fairest action to take for all concerned.”