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IT’S not just ladies who lunch... doctors do, too.

Departing Doctor Who star Matt Smith has given incoming Time Lord Peter Capaldi his official seal of approval after a slap-up meal.

Proffering a few words of advice, the 30-year-old handed the reins to the acclaimed Scots actor over a boozy lunch at London’s Wolesley restaurant.

After talking Tardis for over two hours, he now reckons Peter can become the best Doctor yet.

Matt, who will be killed off by Cybermen in this year’s Christmas special, revealed the pair met up last Friday at the Royal Opera House GQ afterparty.

He told me: “I really rate Peter – he’s such an amazing actor and completely right for the part. We went out for lunch to talk Doctor tactics. I’m not sure if I gave him any real ideas because it’s not like he needs much help. He’ll play the Doctor in his own way – and do it brilliantly.

“I can’t wait to see what he does with the part.”

Matt’s comments come after The Thick Of It star, who will become the 12th incarnation of the character in the long-running BBC series, received criticism that, at 55 years old, he is too old for the role.

Fans took to Twitter and various fan sites moaning about the decision by writer Stephen Moffat.

(Image: BBC)

Unlike previous Scots Doctor David Tennant, the Glasgow-born, award-winning thesp will keep his accent.

Meanwhile Matt, who presented Noel Gallagher with his Icon gong, arrived at Tuesday’s lavish bash alongside his sister Laura Jayne.

Showing off his current shaven head – as required for his new movie How To Catch A Monster – the quirky star also came face to face with ex Daisy Lowe. Following a slightly awkward embrace, the pair were later seen chatting happily.

Matt’s second last Doctor Who episode, marking the show’s 50th anniversary,?airs on Nov 23. It will feature 10th Doctor Tennant, as well as Billie Piper, who played Rose.