A Doctor’s note.

When Peter Capaldi was cast last August, I remember sending a letter and SAE down to Cardiff in the hope of a signed photo from the new Doctor. I realised not long afterwards that I’d sent it to the wrong address, but decided not to write again.
But as the summer wore on, I figured that, as I wasn’t going to get to any of the filming or promotional stuff, I’d write to Peter again, and send it to the right address.

I know that he’s fond of fan artwork, and as I’ve a few pieces of my own, I put together a collection of my stuff, sent a couple of copies, and enclosed an SAE in the hope of getting a copy signed and returned, and maybe a signed photo too. I figured John Barrowman wouldn’t mind giving up his spot in my three-paned photo frame for another Doctor.

Anyway, I got my SAE back today. One of my sheets of drawings was enclosed – sadly unsigned – and a signed photo of Peter, with a note ‘from the office of Peter Capaldi’ to apologise for the delay (to be fair, it’s only been four and a half weeks since I sent my letter), and explaining how busy the new Doctor is.

I must admit, I’ve had my doubts today about the signed photo – it’s certainly been signed, though I wasn’t sure if it was by the man himself. It just seemed a little more legible than other examples I’ve seen online of his autograph.
Anyway, I’ve decided that yes, of course it’s signed by Peter Capaldi. Why should I think otherwise? And I’m very grateful.

EDIT: Oh well, sod that. Posted the photo – and my doubts – on Facebook earlier. Comment from a friend:
“I’m sorry to say it isn’t. A secretary signature. His real signing is pretty awful and hardly legible!”

I guess Johnny B will be keeping his place for a while.

EDIT, PART TWO: Discussing doubts on both Facebook and Twitter. This exchange from Twitter is pleasing.