The Doctor arrives at a coastal village that is cursed…

The winner of the Memorial Short Trips Award for 2021 is this enjoyable tale by Joe Vevers for the Ninth Doctor, read by Jacob Dudman. It was actually the only short trip released in 2021 and is a valid reminder why the format is a good one for Big Finish – it gives a chance for writers to demonstrate their handle on the show and its lead character without the props of many of the series’ regular features. In this story Vevers spends his time setting up the situation, and letting us get to know the narrator Malcolm, before the arrival of the Doctor, trying to get hold of some chips rather too late in the day.

Dudman’s performance as Malcolm captures the nerves, fear and worry of the youngster, counterpointed with the 9th Doctor’s distinct tones. Careful attention is repaid as what’s going on becomes clear to the Doctor and then to the narrator and audience – it feels as if we’re going down a certain path but then the storytelling takes a sharp turn.

Verdict: A well constructed short story. 8/10

Paul Simpson

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