JOHN Barrowman was reunited with a mega-fan on a visit to Reading with his sister Carole on Monday as part of their nationwide book tour.

Mr Barrowman, most widely known for his role as Captain Jack Harkness in the BBC's Doctor Who and Torchwood, and Mrs Barrowman signed books and posed for photographs at the Waterstones on Broadstreet.

Among the 100 people that had queued up to see them, some since 11am for the 5pm appearance, was Jenny Banbury from Abingdon.

Mrs Banbury was a regular at Mr Barrowman's events but had been unable to attend since she fell seriously ill last year.

Upon seeing her for the first time since her illness Mr Barrowman embraced her and jumped onto her wheelchair, inducing the audience to break into spontaneous applause.

Speaking before the appearance Mr Barrowman said: “I have driven through Reading many times because I have a house in Cardiff and its on route to London, but I have only actually been here twice.

“My husband is fascinated by Green park. We know we are driving Reading because we can see the big windmill there.”

The Barrowman's new novel, Conjuror, is the first book in the Orion Chronicles series and follows Rémy Dupree Rush, a magician who can alter reality through music.

Mrs Barrowman, an English and creative writing professor in Wisconsin, said: “I do all the writing and John helps me come up with the ideas.”

Other attendees included Henley College student and competition winners Emily McDowell and her mum Debbie Davies.

Miss McDowell won a free t-shirt, a copy of the Barrowman's new book and the chance to have her photo taken with the pair.

Michaela Shepherd and Shianne Adams, both 17, had been waiting for the Barrowmans to arrive for almost six hours.

“We've been here since 11.30,” said Shianne.

“I am a massive fan and I have been watching him on TV since I was 7.”

Earlier in the day Mr and Mrs Barrowman gave a talk and signed books at Bulmershe Primary School.