Tennant quits as Doctor Who

David Tennant is quitting the BBC’s 'Doctor Who' series at the end of next year.

Tennant’s decision brings to an end his popular four-year tenure as the time lord.

He made the announcement while collecting the Outstanding Drama Performance gong at the National Television Awards last night.

Speaking through a video link, he told viewers: “When 'Doctor Who' returns in 2010 it won’t be with me.

“Now don’t make me cry. The 2009 shows will be my last playing the doctor.

“I love this show and if I don’t take a deep breath and move on now I never will and you will be wheeling me out of the Tardis in my bath chair.

“It’s been the most brilliant, mad, life-changing time over the last three and a half years but I am not going yet. Thank you for watching it, for loving it and for being so enthusiastic about the show.”

Tennant accepted the award from Stratford-upon-Avon, where he is playing Hamlet.

He said Catherine Tate should win the award.

Tate took to the stage at the Royal Albert Hall to pick up the award for 'Doctor Who', and said: “This is extraordinary. I know 'Doctor Who' has won it every year. I was sweating we were going to lose the year I joined.”