Blackpool’s increasingly populated seafront brought the guarantee of an already established audience and the TV themed exhibition proved to be a crowd puller when it first opened in 1973 by Jon Pertwee. And it was an amazing experience for lucky young winners of the Gazette’s design a monster competition who got to meet the Timelord in person. The exhibition showcased a collection of costumes and props from the series, many of them animated, and was updated every year with items from the latest season. It closed in 1985 before being reinvented in 2004 for a further five years. It was only when the BBC decided it needed it’s costumes back that the idea was finally abandoned – not before it had made its mark though as one of Blackpool’s most memorable attractions.
In case you missed them: 16 buildings in Blackpool which embraced the Art Deco style including some lost and forgotten

13. Dr Who Exhibition
The highly recognisable sign for the promenade Dr Who Exhibition Photo: Donna Clifford

14. Doctor Who Exhibition
Can Cybermen get in for half price? Doctor Who and a few friends queue for the exhibition in 2004 Photo: Rob Lock


16. Doctor Who Exhibition
The new Doctor Who exhibition opened in 2004 - this was the opening day when a Dalek set out to exterminate a few holidaymakers... Photo: Rob Lock

17. Doctor Who Exhibition
The exhibition nearing completion ready for opening day which was Good Friday, 2004. Exhibition Manager Mark Jacabs comes face to face with a Dalek Photo: Rob Lock

18. Dr Who Exhibition
Hyde fundraisers and staff of the Dr Who exhibition taking part in Blackpool Carnival Photo: Martin Bostock

