DARWEN Library Theatre was transported back in time to Doctor Who's heyday by a fan and former stars of the show.

Alongside two replica Daleks were enthusiasts dressed as their favourite 'Doctor' or bad guy, who mingled with actors.

But proceedings were tinged with disappointment as a Tardis promised for the show failed to materialise.

Dr Who fanatic Graham Groom, 40, of Meadow Street, Darwen, organised the convention, thought to be the first in East Lancashire, through contacts in his autograph club. He was disappointed at ticket sales locally but delighted fans came from as far as Glasgow, Worcester and Peterborough.

For £18, fans were treated to six hours of nostalgia, firing questions at Terry Molloy, who played famous Dalek baddie Davros, and BBC special effects engineer Mike Tucker.

Bond girl Caroline Munro, who appeared in The Spy Who Loved Me and the new Dr Who radio shows, added a touch of glamour.

Graham, a library assistant at Darwen Library, said: "It was surprisingly easy to organise. We just wanted people to have a good time."

Terry Molloy, who has also played milkman Mike Tucker in radio soap The Archers for 30 years, is a veteran of Dr Who conventions. He said: "People just have a great love for the programme.

"It is part of their lives, like being part of an extended family.

"I find it great fun. I loved playing Davros. It was very demanding because of the heavy equipment but he was a great character."

Special effects guru Mike Tucker said: "Dr Who was a challenge. Producers wanted Star Wars-style effects but gave us a small budget."