A KICKSTARTER campaign to bring a Cheshire-made Doctor Who universe spin-off to the big screen has attracted £22,000 of funding in just three days.

The Minister of Chance – already a cult sci-fi podcast starring Sylvester McCoy and Paul McGann – needs to reach £100,000 by October 31 to make the dream a reality.

The former Timelords have been lined up alongside Minister co-stars including The Hobbit’s Jed Brophy to begin production in Cheshire.

Minister brainchild, Dan Freeman, a Crewe-based BBC producer, said: “It took two days to get to £18,000. One fan in Japan pledged £2,000 alone.

“It’s amazing, but we need to get the whole amount to start the film.

“If it does happen it will do a great deal of good for the local community and businesses.

“We will have all these great actors and experienced crew filming right here in Cheshire. It should create a lot of tourism for the area.”

A movie-prologue staring McGann and Blackadder’s Tim McInnery has swelled The Minister’s international appeal – which began life as a six part audio mini-series at Blakemere Craft Centre in Northwich. The podcast’s unique online community has helped the series’ popularity spread across the globe.

Becoming part of ‘The Ministry’ enables fans to get involved with the show itself – from obtaining professionally-made film props to starring alongside Minister actors and attending celebrity-laden special events.

Businesses can also pledge support in exchange for exclusive rights.

While locations across Cheshire have already been lined up for filming, including Arley Hall, Dan’s hoping more locals will help pledge support and reach the magic £100,000 mark.

To become part of the Ministry and to support the film, visit ministerofchance.com

Dan Freeman is offering an ultra-limited edition prize worth £200 to one lucky Guardian reader.

A porcelain figurine of Sylvester McCoy in his Minister of Chance role as The Witch Prime can be yours by answering the following question:- Which wizard did Sylvester play in Peter Jackson’s version of The Hobbit?

The first answer out the hat wins.

Email matthew.taylor@guardiangrp.co.uk or write to Guardian Series Newspapers, Theatre Court, Northwich, Cheshire, CW9 5HB.

Mark correspondence ‘Minister Contest’.

Usual Newsquest rules apply.