10 Times Doctor Who Daleks Appeared Where You'd Least Expect Them
4. A Dalek Enforces Lockdown Restrictions
During the COVID19 lockdown in the UK, an uncharacteristically community minded Dalek patrolled the streets of Sedgely, advising its neighbours to stay alert. The Black Country Dalek was operated by Gavin Priest, a Doctor Who fan and heating engineer who customised the prop with a motorised wheelchair.
Gavin decided to use the prop to spread his message of ISO-LATE as a means to cheer up his street. He didn't want to overly preach and saw it as a daft way to liven up the drudgery of lockdown. He told his local paper, the Express & Star that "People have just been smiling at it – it's a bit of fun and it's an excuse for me to indulge in what I love." Gavin's story of using his passion to spread a bit of joy and happiness to his community is the antithesis of the Daleks, but it's quintessentially Doctor Who.
The Black Country Dalek is still active, and has been photographed with Doctor Who stars Colin Baker and Terry Molloy. Gavin has also expanded his collection, and now offers Daleks for hire on his Facebook page Black Country Dalek.