The morning of Monday, 15 October 1979 looms large in my family’s legend. This was the day that Doctor Who came to Cambridge.
Filming of the new episodes began on the River Cam, where things didn’t get off to a very good start. Tom Baker’s punting technique left a lot to be desired, and with take after take he grew visibly frustrated. Much to the amusement of his co-star Lalla Ward and the assembled onlookers, Tom’s struggle with the wayward punt left him increasingly soggy. Before long the air turned blue. Guest star Christopher Neame had to wait for his cue as an incandescent Tom was shepherded to Clare College’s Junior Combination Room for some rest and recuperation. The sequence would eventually be completed with patience, perseverance and a bit of creative editing.
