The barrier brings the travellers to the 2050s, a time when it seems climate change is in reverse…

Big Finish’s continuation of Timeslip draws to a close with this excellent story written and directed by Helen Goldwyn – probably the best of the four that they’ve produced. There’s scope for further adventures but there’s also a clear ending that could serve as a capstone to the entire run (and inevitably leaves some unanswered questions that could still be explored in any follow-on).

Goldwyn splits the group up on familiar lines, with Simon and Liz arriving together and getting into one set of scrapes, while Neil and Jade have their own encounters, meeting the President who’s rather too familiar. As for Charlotte? It seems the barrier has played a trick on her… Inevitably, there are a few conveniences for plot purposes, but these are introduced as organically as possible.

I won’t spoil the surprises and twists, but suffice it to say that we’re very much in apocalyptic territory, with Goldwyn suggesting an end of the world scenario that feels all too possible and no punches are pulled with regard to the fate of those involved. It’s not preachy about the climate change emergency – which it could easily have been – but the commentary on what might be and how venal people could take advantage is clear.

There’s strong performances across the board and David Roocroft’s sound design immerses the listener in the various aquatic environments.

Verdict: The final trip through the barrier – for now anyway – sends this miniseries out on a high note. 10/10

Paul Simpson

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