'Sarah Jane Smith' star on hoodie worship

Former Doctor Who actress Elisabeth Sladen has spoken about how her return to the hit show this year has given her added street cred.

In an interview with Digital Spy, the actress, who stars in upcoming spin-off The Sarah Jane Smith Adventures, revealed: "Occasionally hoodies will come up and I think 'Oh God, I'm going to be mugged... [but] they're so nice to me! 'Hello Sarah!' [they'll say!"

Sladen was a regular companion in the Tardis alongside third and fourth Doctors Jon Pertwee and Tom Baker, playing journalist Sarah Jane Smith between 1973 and 1976. She appeared alongside current Timelord actor David Tennant in the episode 'School Reunion' this year, giving her public profile a massive boost.

Another recent incident also demonstrates the impact her comeback made: "At Charing Cross Station the other week, I was just sitting there with my coffee waiting for a connection, and this guy didn't stop walking, he just came up and said 'god bless you, Sarah' and walked off!" said Sladen. "It's always very sweet, I like it," she added.

Her new spin-off show The Sarah Jane Smith Adventures will be shown at on New Year's Day on BBC One at 4.50pm.