Could it be magic?

Thursday, September 11, and the BBC launched its new Saturday night ITV1-slayer, Merlin, to an enthused press.

The screening was held at the BFI IMAX on London’s South Bank, before the assembled filed along to The OXO Tower for the – inevitably – lavish reception.

As ever, the Beeb’s guest list policy for a do like this brought an intriguing mix of people together. Aside from the cast, Steven Moffat, Russell T Davies and Eve Myles (all, to varying extents, interested parties), there was also Kevin McCloud from C4′s Grand Designs. Baffled as to how he’d got an invite, he’d popped along with his son as a birthday treat. Both of them loved the show (Kevin enthusing about its “strong narrative” before accidentally picking up a phone call from his wife, to whom he’d previously fibbed he was on his way home).

And then there was former Blue Peter presenter Peter Duncan, and his missus. Peter wasn’t quite so keen on the show, wishing the Beeb would remain more faithful to the tenets of classic children’s literature. But was happy to be there. [Oh, and he'd be much obliged if you had a look at this website for details of his upcoming one man show, entitled - well, what do you think? - Duncan Dares.]

Anyway, Peter, aside, all looks positive for Merlin, the most credible Doctor Who alternative BBC1′s come up with yet. We’ll have more on the programme on Tuesday.