ACTOR Christopher Eccleston fights off the murderous advances of an Auton in the first episode of the new series of Doctor Who.

The Little Hulton-born star faces the aliens in the first story, "Rose", which is believed to be scheduled for BBC1 at 7pm on March 26.

TV bosses are furious after the opening episode, which also stars Billie Piper as his assistant Rose, was leaked on to the Internet.

The 45-minute episode features the return of the Autons, plastic dummies brought to life by an alien intelligence.

Beeb bosses say the leak is "a significant breach of copyright which is currently under investigation".

A BBC spokesman said: "The source of the episode on the Internet appears to be connected to our co-production partner.

"We would urge viewers not to spoil their enjoyment and to wait for the finished version."

Doctor Who is one of this year"s most eagerly awaited television series. Nine actors have played the role on television. It was last shown in 1989, although it was resurrected for a one-off TV movie in 1996.

The Doctor, an alien traveller visiting Earth who has a history of fighting evil, will be eccentric, but more serious than most of his predecessors.

Much of the new series has been written by Queer As Folk"s Russell Davies, a Who fan from childhood.

There were will 13, 45-minute episodes and the Doctor"s most famous enemies, the Daleks, are due to make a return.