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“The Spectre of Lanyon Moor: A Sinister Slice of Cornish Folklore”

The Spectre of Lanyon Moor delivers a gripping blend of local mythology, small-town intrigue, and science fiction, making it one of the stronger early Big Finish adventures. Its moody atmosphere, richly realised setting, and strong character dynamics make it a standout for fans of the Sixth Doctor and Evelyn Smythe.

The story opens with a dramatic and tragic scene of an alien being abandoned by its kin, setting the tone for the eerie events to follow. Six and Evelyn’s arrival at the idyllic yet mysterious Cornish village of Lanyon Moor immerses listeners in a world steeped in folklore. The meticulous attention to local mythology enriches the narrative, much like the approach taken in The Daemons.

The cliffhangers are well-executed, particularly the Part 1 revelation of the deadly threat and the Part 3 scene reminiscent of Azaal's summoning, which heightens tension and sets the stage for a gripping finale.

Evelyn shines throughout, with Maggie Stables showcasing her wit, intelligence, and independence. Her dynamic with the Sixth Doctor continues to be a joy, particularly as she tempers his more brusque tendencies, such as when she forces him to apologise to other characters. Evelyn’s rapport with Barnaby Edwards' Philip is also a highlight, making his betrayal all the more impactful.

The story is also notable for the return of Nicholas Courtney as the Brigadier. His reunion with the Doctor is handled with understated charm, allowing him to slot seamlessly into the narrative. Courtney plays the Brigadier as older and wiser, and his pivotal role in the climax is a satisfying moment for fans of the character.

The supporting cast is strong, with James Bolam delivering a delightfully nasty performance as Sir Archibald Flint, even if his character is a somewhat generic power-hungry aristocrat. Susan Jameson adds depth and menace as Mrs. Moynihan, while Toby Longworth makes Sancreda a compelling and sinister presence in the final part.

The creatures, brought to life through evocative sound design, maintain an air of ambiguity that adds to their creepiness. However, their limited presence in the middle of the story diminishes some of the tension built earlier on.

Despite some clunky moments in the writing typical of early Big Finish, the story flows well, even with its longer-than-average episode lengths. The climax, while talk-heavy, provides a satisfying resolution that balances the Brigadier’s heroism with the Doctor’s sharp intellect.

📝Verdict: 8/10

The Spectre of Lanyon Moor combines a strong sense of place, engaging performances, and a sinister atmosphere to deliver a memorable audio drama. It stands out as a testament to the potential of Big Finish’s early efforts, successfully weaving folklore and science fiction into a compelling tale.