Fans of Doctor Who have already waited 16 years to see the Tardis whirr back into life - now they are being urged to hang on for three more weeks after it was revealed that the first episode had found its way on to the internet.

An investigation has been launched by producers at BBC One after the 45-minute episode, called Rose, appeared on file-sharing networks.

The BBC said that the leak, which has been traced to DVDs sent to Canada for sale after the UK screening, was "a significant breach of copyright which is currently under investigation".

A spokesman added: "The source of it appears to be connected to our co-production partner.

"We would urge viewers not to spoil their enjoyment and to wait for the finished version which airs at the end of the month."

However, this is the second leak from producers and has raised suspicions within the industry that the judicious breaches of security are helping to stoke excitement among devotees in time for the first installment on Easter Saturday.

The script of the episode has also found its way into the public domain and describes how the new Doctor, played by Christopher Eccleston, star of Our Friends in the North, is more modern in his style of dress but retains the traditional police box Tardis and sonic screwdriver.

Episode one has a tabloid newspaper trying to buy up the story of Rose Tyler, his assistant, played by Billie Piper, when she escapes an explosion.

The Doctor's enemies will be familiar to fans of the original series, which began in 1963. They are shop dummies and are controlled by an alien consciousness, a vat of intelligence lurking underneath the London Eye on the banks of the River Thames.

In one scene sure to ensure the sci-fi show's enduring cult status, the Timelord and his sidekick do battle with an army of wheelie bins.

Stars of the new series will appear in Cardiff tonight for the official publicity launch.

Explore UK News

• Crime News

• Education News

• Health News

• Scotland News

Times Recommends

• What makes the perfect mum?
• To keep me stress-free, no more awareness days, please
• What do lottery winners buy?