The Ninth Doctor arrives in the garden of a family in Southampton shortly before the First World War.

I enjoyed Selim Ulug’s first Short Trip, in particular for its keen characterisation of the Doctor and the way in which the writer parcelled out the various elements of his plot. This tale for a pre-Rose Ninth Doctor shows that this wasn’t something that Ulug ould only apply to Pertwee’s incarnation – this is the post-Time War Time Lord who knows that he had to do terrible things in the name of a greater good, and really does not want to be responsible for anything, or anyone any more. There’s a well-observed moment when he realises what’s likely to happen, and his reaction could only really come from this Doctor – and full marks to Nicholas Briggs for portraying the emotion well – and an analogy regarding cats and mice that is so appropriate for the Doctor in all their lives.

It’s always interesting comparing the work of different directors on the Big Finish ranges – there are subtle differences in the way that Alfie Shaw brings stories to life from the manner in which Lisa Bowerman, Helen Goldwyn or Nick Briggs create the audio landscape – and there’s strong work here from director, actor, sound designer Richard Fox and writer. It’s not quite the story you’re expecting if you know the Ninth Doctor era – and all the better for it.

Verdict: Another strong Short Trip from Selim Ulug, brought to life well. 9/10

Paul Simpson

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