More than 40 years after appearing in Doctor Who, one of the show’s blue androids is making an unlikely comeback – in the waters off Cobo Bay.
Dean Hollingsworth is set to bring a touch of sci-fi history to this year’s Skipton Boxing Day Dip, when he’ll resurrect a character from the archives of Doctor Who lore.
To help raise money for the Guernsey Cheshire Home, Dean will be resurrecting the Karfelon Android, a character he played over 40 years ago alongside Colin Baker in the Doctor Who serial Timelash.
It’s been 41 years since he first donned the blue makeup, but when he dons it again on Boxing Day, it might not be the only reason he’s blue.
However, a good cause was sufficient to get him back into character, and that character into cold water.
“I saw the amazing care both my parents were given during their end of life process by the voluntary sector and wanted to do something tangible to support them.
“Then Rhona Humphreys approached me at the Port and Cheese swim and asked how much it would cost to get me to go in. We talked a bit and the idea of me going in as the Blue Android seemed such a funny idea especially with how cold it is.”
Guernsey Electricity Limited has adopted the challenge as the final entry in their ‘125 Good Deeds’ programme, a scheme the company says was established to celebrate its 125th anniversary.
It’s also where Mr Hollingsworth’s target of £1,250 has come from, however some help from inside the company could put a major dent in that total, depending on the androids tolerance for cold water.
“Mark Alderton our IT managers then pledged to donate £10 for every minute I stay in up to a limit of £125 which is already 10% of my target,” said Mr Hollingsworth, adding, “I’ve already had many pledges from friends on Facebook and from Dr Who fans who have heard about it, so I’m quietly confident about the target although it would be great if we smashed it.”
The role was his first television appearance following his training at The Central School of Speech and Drama. The original costume was designed by Alun Hughes, and Dean is currently working to replicate the look.
He said: “I’m also trying to recreate the costume which was designed by Alun Hughes who designed Diana Rigg’s costumes for the Avengers.
“I’m hoping I’ve got enough blue makeup to cover my body although if it’s that cold I might not need the make up.”
When asked if he’d like to see other islanders join in on the themed fancy dressed fun, he said that as long as it was safe to do so.
“I’d love to see Dr Who themed fancy dress at the swim as long as it’s safe. Don’t go in, in a dustbin with an egg whisk and toilet plunger as you may end up exterminated.”
SUPPORT…
All proceeds from the event will go directly to the Guernsey Cheshire Home. Donations can be made via their official website HERE.
This year’s Boxing Day Dip is scheduled to start at 10.30, at Cobo Bay.