One of the more controversial stories from Colin Baker's era as the Doctor was Phillip Martin's Vengeance On Varos, a satire on the dangers of society watching violent TV. The cast assembled is one of the strongest ever for a Doctor Who story featuring Jason Connery in his first small screen appearance, Martin Jarvis, Stephen Yardley and a performance of great relish from Nabil Shaban as the odious slug-like Sil, one of the finest creations to emerge from the series during the 1980's. (And who would return for Colin's second season). The story was much criticised for it's depictment of violence and it's glorification but that is to miss the entire point of the script. The production is very moodily lit in blues and reds by director Ron Jones, and there is a real sense of claustrophobia and menace in the Punishment Dome sequences. This is balanced nicely by the comic commentary from Arak and Etta sat at home watching the events unfold on their television. Not only one of the sixth Doctor's finest but a highlight from the classic series period.

COLIN BAKER ONLINE RATING 8/10

Peri's ventriloquist act was earning raves !

Sil (ly sod).

"Don't I recognise you from that sit-com ?"

"You think this is bad, you're a stones throw from Howards' Way my boy..." "You can talk, Madge !"

The Doctor shields himself from the divine glow of John Nathan-Turner.

Vengeance on Varos is available on BBC DVD: In a regular edition and as a, features and extras packed, Special Edition (Regions 1, 2 & 4)

The Doctor visits the planet Varos to obtain supplies of a rare ore called zeiton 7, vital to the functioning of the TARDIS. Varos was once a colony for the criminally insane and the descedants of the orginal guards still rule over the rest poverty-striken population.

The Doctor and Peri meet two rebels, Jondar and Areta, and Peri and Areta are captured by Qullam, the Dome's sadistic commandant...

Starring Colin Baker, Nicola Bryant. Written by Phillip Martin. Directed by Ron Jones. Produced by John Nathan-Turner.