Its 1970 and this ninety minutes split over four episodes is a perfect length for the show, I'm not sure why it takes the producers so long to establish that as a trend. Along with some cracking cliffhangers, the pacing of this story is perfect. This is aided by our brand new more 'action led' Doctor, who I'd add is  underrated in terms of his comedic performance (maybe because The Second Doctor is seen as the 'funny one'). His post-regeneration confusion is a wonderful introduction and fills you with optimism for the series. It is a small shame however that we do not get to see that all important scene depicting the moment of regeneration, it must have not occurred to them as a vital element of the show.

Perhaps the most immediately striking thing about Spearhead from Space is the drastic shift in visual style following on from the previous year's The War Games. With the possible exception of The TV Movie I don't believe there has ever been two episodes side by side which has displayed more visual development (and there was a six year gap for that one!). This is not just because of the use of colour, it is also due to being uniquely shot entirely on film which gives it an exciting big budget feel, it looks astonishing (if only the other major industrial strike had effected Shada in this way!)

It is wonderful however to see Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart on the scene. He does not simply provide a comforting link to the past, his return is justified by being central to the form of the new show. If The Doctor has to be on Earth permanently (I'm not sure why he does) then thank goodness its with one of the very best recurring characters from the first six years of the show. Even with all the changes that are about to take place, there is no doubt that this is the same show.

Liz Shaw is an interesting sort of companion, she provides a sceptical equal to The Doctor. It is a brave move which I am enjoying. As with all companions, the question is whether they continue to skillfully develop the character in the same vein. During the 1960s we've had brilliant introductions for characters which have immediately gone limp and completely changed course by their second story.

The Nestenes and Autons show a level of sparky imagination that we have not seen in a brand new monster for years. Plastic window shop dummies sit alongside the untouchable elite of Daleks (1963), Cybermen (1966) and Yetis (1967). They have a frightening presence which the audience will want to see again. They are the perfect choice of monster for a Doctor's introduction too. Their motives and story are simple enough to be intelligently fleshed out over a few engaging beats. Whilst this is happening we can get to know our new regular cast.

I am not convinced about The Doctor being stranded on one planet though I do appreciate that a key essence to the show is change.

This is by far my most watched classic Doctor Who story and is one that I cherish. I think it is a highly promising debut for the Third Doctor, if not quite as excellent as Troughton's first story The Power of the Daleks.