Following the announcement that Matt Smith will take over from David Tennant as the new Doctor, BBC Worldwide has restated its commitment to make the series one of its priority licensing brands through 2009, series five in 2010 and beyond.

It also confirmed the renewal and extension of the Doctor Who master toy licence with Character Options. Character, who has held the licence since the new series launched in 2005, will spearhead the development of new product featuring Matt Smith. BBC Worldwide will develop new style elements for licensees for series five with product expected to hit retail in Summer 2010.

Neil Ross Russell, Managing Director, BBC Worldwide Children’s and Licensing said: “We’re thrilled about the announcement of Matt Smith as the new Doctor not least because of the opportunities it gives our creative team and licensees. Doctor Who is a long term priority for us as a commercial business and with Matt on board, we will be looking to develop a new style guide with fresh creative elements to inspire our licensing partners.”

Product highlights in 2009 include the launch of the Time Squad collectible figures in Spring plus repackaged and revamped Cyberman ‘Age of Steel’ products in chrome packs to tie in with the Christmas Special.

Specials such as the Doctor’s book of Impossible Things, Jack’s Vortex Manipulator and the Future Sonic Screwdriver will also hit the shops early in 2009.

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