We’ve never had a season long arc in Doctor Who before now, a concept well ahead of its time in 1978. It gives a new lease of life to the show after a meagre season 15 and gives me the impression that season 16 will be far superior. Although Robert Holmes is always likely to perk up a a production.

Romana is a nice switch up from Leela. Hyper intelligent, one of The Doctor’s race, posh. Her intro screams “male gaze” though as the camera pans up showing the length of her legs in the cut of her glamorous dress. It has the desired effect but feels a bit seedy and makes an effort to overshadow a lovely, understated performance. She reminds me of Caroline John's Liz Shaw. Someone who is not going to get the dues of a Leela or a Sarah-Jane but shines in each and every one of their scenes.

Binro the Heretic is one of Robert Holmes’ best characters. I am especially fond of the the “Binro was right” scene which I remember well after not seeing the story for the best part of 10 years. It is amazing how well his character comes across given how few scenes he appears in and how inessential to the plot he is.

The story feels like a historical adventure despite its alien setting which is to its credit. Much in the mould of the Peladon adventures it makes a more convincing setting of the alien world whilst still allowing for menacing green creatures to be part of the narrative without them being disguised from the local.

I liked the con men double act at the heart of this story too - the dastardly one and kind-hearted one balance each other out well.

Here's to season 16 (hopefully) being a continuing success. And to a much improved, much quieter K-9 mk 2!