Anthony Head and THE Colin Baker confirmed for the SFX Weekender

But work commitments mean Alex Kingston is no longer able to attend

This announcement is also slightly bittersweet, because we we’re very sad to have to report that Alex Kingston, aka Doctor Who’s River Song, has been forced to pull out due to shifting production dates changing her commitments on Upstairs, Downstairs . But Anthony Head! And Colin Baker!

Whether you know him as level-headed Giles, hot-headed Uther Pendragon or that smoothie off the coffee commercials, one thing remains the same about Anthony Head – he’s a bonafide SF legend (freeze dried coffee is sort of sci-fi, right?) Never one to aim low, Anthony began his career with a series of acclaimed stage and television performances, but his most famous role was yet to come – loveable librarian Rupert Giles in Joss Whedon’s seminal ’90s series Buffy The Vampire Slayer , a character which he played for seven years (and possibly more if the Ripper spin-off ever happens). The role won him adoration the world over and he hasn’t looked back since – guesting in Doctor Who , Spooks and Little Britain ; taking the lead (and proving “Once More With Feeling” wasn’t just a fluke) in cult favourite Repo! The Genetic Opera ; and appearing as Camelot’s volatile king in the first four series of Merlin . For more information on Anthony's upcoming appearances on TV and film check out his website at www.anthonyhead.org .

Anthony Head and THE Colin Baker will be appearing at the SFX Weekender 3 – Anthony on Friday 3 February and Colin on Saturday 4 February. They join a whole galaxy of stars at the event, including another Doctor (Sylvester McCoy), companion Ace (Sophie Aldred) and Torchwood ’s Gwen Cooper (Eve Myles). We’ll also be welcoming both incarnations of Red Dwarf ’s Holly (Norman Lovett and Hattie Hayridge), the one-and-only Brian Blessed, and Craig Charles, who returns to DJ on the Saturday night.

Throw in dozens of top authors, comic book artists, panel discussions, screenings, the Blastermind quiz, 2000 AD’s 35 th birthday party, the Imaginarium cabaret show, the Maskerade Ball, a Cosplay Competition and the presentation of the SFX Awards 2012 and you’re looking at the only place any self-respecting science fiction fan would want to be.

The SFX Weekender 3 takes place at Prestatyn Sands holiday camp in North Wales on Friday 3 February and Saturday 4 February 2012. Residential tickets are completely sold out but day passes are still available. Make sure you get yours before it's too late! Book now by calling 08700 11 00 34, or head to www.sfxweekender.com/tickets for more information.

Jordan Farley

I'm the News Editor at Total Film magazine, running the opening pages of every issue where you can read exclusive interviews and see first-look images from the biggest films. I was previously the Community Editor at sci-fi, fantasy and horror movie bible SFX. You'll find my name on news, reviews, and interviews covering every type of movie, from the latest French arthouse release to the biggest Hollywood blockbuster. My work has also featured in Official PlayStation Magazine and Edge. Outside of my day job, I'm a FromSoft fanatic (proudest achievement: beating Malenia solo) and a TV connoisseur (translation: I'll watch anything).