Dr Who star Jon Pertwee estate in London auction

Items from the estate of the English actor Jon Pertwee (1919-96) come for sale at Chiswick Auctions in February. They include original manuscripts and photographs relating to his best-known roles in Dr Who, Worzel Gummidge and the long-running BBC radio comedy The Navy Lark.  

Pertwee took over the role as the third incarnation of the legendary Doctor Who in 1969 and starred alongside Una Stubbs in Worzel Gummidge from 1979–89. 

Offered with an estimate of £400-£600 as part of a timed online Autographs and Memorabilia sale running from February 2-18 is a group-lot of scripts and photos from the 1960s-80s. They include the lyrics of Worzel’s song, Scarecrows on Parade, The Worzel Walk and others, all with annotations in Pertwee’s hand, and a black and white photograph of Pertwee with William Hartnell and Patrick Troughton, the first and second actors to play Doctor Who. 

Another lot comprises three late 18th or early-19th century men’s embroidered cream silk waistcoats accompanied by a black and white photograph showing Pertwee wearing one at the 1951 British Industries Fair in Earl’s Court. Also in shot, admiring the garment, are fellow actors Bob Hope and Jacques Sernas.  

“Anyone who lived in the 60s, 70s and 80s will remember John Pertwee fondly. These scripts that come for sale from his family are a perfect snapshot of many of his best loved roles,” said Valentina Borghi, head of Autographs and Memorabilia at Chiswick Auctions in London.