Bispham youngster Owen Mitchell donned a stripy scarf and took a walk down Doctor Who memory lane as the 11th incarnation of the charismatic time lord was revealed.

Sci-fi fans have been waiting with bated breath for many months.

But finally the secret came out as producers of the cult TV show announced young actor Matt Smith, 26, will follow in the footsteps of David Tennant and take control of the Tardis.

With many critics saying the floppy haired newcomer is too young to play a 903-year-old time traveller, opinion was divided in the resort.

Owen, 10, was in the Who store on Victoria Street looking at Dr Who memorabilia with his grandad Chris. He said: "I think the new Doctor looks OK. He looks quite a bit like David Tennant anyway with his long hair.

"I didn't like it at first when David Tennant took over from Christopher Eccleston, but I got used to it and I'm sure I'll get used to the new one."

Grandad Chris, 60, wasn't so sure and said: "I'm surprised they would get somebody so unknown in to such a high profile role. David Tennant is going to be a hard act to follow. Time will tell!"

Who store manager and seasoned sci-fi enthusiast Dave Simon was more optimistic about Smith's Sonic Screwdriver wielding ability.

He said: "At first I was a little bit shocked to see Smith. It's hard getting used to the idea of having a Doctor younger than me. I'm a lifelong fan and the Doctor was someone I looked up to as a child so it's a bit weird.

"I think producers have done it on purpose to bring the teenage girl demographic into sci-fi, I think he will get the mum vote too.
"He certainly looks quirky enough for the role."

Pam Hearsun, 34, was in with her children Leanne, nine, and Sam, six, who were buying Dr Who toys with their pocket money. Pam said: "I'm a big David Tennant fan so I'm probably a bit biased but he looks a bit young to me.

"I never used to watch it but the kids really like it and I must admit getting to look at David Tennant got me involved. No doubt we'll get used to him."