BBC reveal midnight announcement

Tuesday, 6 September 2016 - Reported by Chuck Foster
The BBC have posted a teaser for a forthcoming announcement at midnight tonight via their Facebook page:



Visit Doctor Who News after midnight UK time for more details.




FILTER: - Audio - BBC Audio - BBC Books - Big Finish - Books - Competitions

June Competition Roundup

Tuesday, 21 June 2016 - Reported by Chuck Foster
A roundup of competitions from Doctor Who News that readers may enter:

The Fourth Doctor Adventures: The Trouble with Drax

The fourth Doctor continues his adventures alongside Romana and K-9:
Altrazar. The temporal Atlantis, a place lost to time. Believed by many to be a myth, it has long been the perfect location for the rich and powerful to hide away their most dangerous secrets. Until now. Because the somewhat crooked, not exactly honest, wheeler-dealer cockney Time Lord known as Drax has found a map that leads to its location. And, at the behest of a manipulative businessman, he's going to use it. When the TARDIS is dragged out of the space-time vortex, its crew aren't best pleased to see the Doctor's old school friend, even less when he pressgangs them into joining a raid on the most secure safe-house in history. However with Romana and K9 held hostage, the Doctor has little choice but to agree. With Drax in tow, he heads for the planet. Which is where the trouble starts.
The Trouble With Drax (Credit: Big Finish)To be in with a chance to win a digital download of the audio adventure courtesy of Big Finish, simply answer the following question:
What is Drax's nickname for the Doctor?
Please send your answer along with your name and the email address you have registered with Big Finish, plus where you heard about the competition (news site, news app, other website, etc.) to comp-bf4d@doctorwhonews.net with the subject "No, Drax, no!". The competition is open worldwide, closing date 3rd July 2016. Note: entrants must have an active registration with Big Finish in order to be eligible to receive the prize - new registrations can be easily created on the website for free and with no financial obligation.

BBC Audio: Doctor Who and The Claws of Axos

The latest classic novelisation adaptation from BBC Audio sees the third Doctor encounter vampires from space ...
When an Unidentified Flying Object arrives in England, the Doctor, Jo and UNIT are quickly on the scene. Inside the strange craft they meet the Axons, beautiful golden creatures who offer a fantastic gift to humanity. Governments around the world are soon clamouring to get their hands on it. Only the Doctor remains suspicious. What is the real reason for the Axons' sudden arrival on Earth
Doctor Who and The Claws Of Axos (Credit: BBC Audio)To be in with a chance to win the audiobook courtesy of BBC Audio, simply answer the following question:? And is the evil Master a passenger on their spaceship? He very soon finds out ...
What was the name of the first victim to encounter Axos upon its arrival on Earth?
Please send your answers along with your name, address and where you heard about the competition (news site, news app, other website, etc.) to comp-axos@doctorwhonews.net with the subject "Axos calling Earth". The competition is open worldwide, closing date 3rd July 2016. Only one entry per household will be accepted.

BBC Audio: Scream Of The Shalka

BBC Audio's latest novel adaptation introduces us to the first official Ninth Doctor ...
When the Doctor lands his TARDIS in the Lancaster town of Lannet in the present day, he finds that something is terrifyingly wrong. The people are scared. They don't like going onto the streets at night; they don't like too much noise; and they certainly don't like strangers asking too many questions. What alien force has invaded the town? Why is it watching barmaid Alison Cheney? And what plans does it have for the future of the planet Earth?
Scream of the Shalka (Credit: BBC Audio)To be in with a chance to win the audiobook courtesy of BBC Audio, simply answer the following question:
Shalka features several actors who later went on to appear in the revived series, but which one went on to play the Doctor himself?
Please send your answers along with your name, address and where you heard about the competition (news site, news app, other website, etc.) to comp-shalka@doctorwhonews.net with the subject "Johnny alien is going to get a good seeing to". The competition is open worldwide, closing date 3rd July 2016. Only one entry per household will be accepted.

BBC Books: The Scientific Secrets of Doctor Who (paperback)

BBC Books are re-issuing their book exploring science in Doctor Who on 7th July:
Doctor Who tells many amazing science fiction stories - but how much of the science is actually real, and how much is really fiction? The Scientific Secrets Of Doctor Who shows how its storytelling has always been intricately linked to science, and how close it has come in predicting future discoveries. With fifteen all-new Doctor Who stories as starting points, Simon Guerrier and Dr Marek Kulula investigate the latest and most boggling scientific ideas through the prism of the series. Everything from TARDIS physics to the possibility of life on other planets is explained, delving into the lore of the show, and the scientific laws it both adheres to and gleefully ignores.
The Scientific Secrets of Doctor Who (paperback) (Credit: BBC Books)To be in with a chance to win the book courtesy of BBC Books, simply answer the following question:
Who was the unofficial scientific advisor to the series during the 1960s around the time of the first Doctor's regeneration?
Please send your answers along with your name, address and where you heard about the competition (news site, news app, other website, etc.) to comp-secrets@doctorwhonews.net with the subject "Science, not sorcery, Miss Hawthorne!". The competition is open to UK readers only, closing date 3rd July 2016. Only one entry per household will be accepted.




FILTER: - Audio - BBC Audio - BBC Books - Big Finish - Competitions

BBC Audio: Target Adaptations Update

Thursday, 9 June 2016 - Reported by Chuck Foster
BBC Audio have released details of the audio adaptions of Target novelisations due to be published for the rest of the year, including the confirmation of Richard Franklin reading this month's Doctor Who and The Claws Of Axos, and Jon Culshaw reading next month's Doctor Who and The Sontaran Experiment.

Doctor Who and The Claws Of Axos (Credit: BBC Audio)Doctor Who and The Claws Of Axos
Written by Terrance Dicks, read by Richard Franklin
Published by BBC Audio 2nd June 2016 [order from Amazon UK]

An unabridged reading of this classic novelisation of an adventure featuring the Third Doctor, as played on TV by Jon Pertwee.

'Axos calling Earth, Axos calling Earth...’

The creatures stood before them, offering friendship and their priceless Axonite, in return for - what? Only the Doctor remains suspicious. What is the real reason for the Axon’s sudden arrival on Earth? And why is the evil Master a passenger on their spaceship? He very soon finds out...

Duration: 3 hours 40 mins
Doctor Who and The Sontaran Experiment (Credit: BBC Audio)Doctor Who and The Sontaran Experiment
Written by Ian Marter, read by Jon Culshaw
Published by BBC Audio 7th July 2016 [pre-order from Amazon UK]

An unabridged reading of this classic novelisation of a Fourth Doctor TV adventure from 1975.

Landing on Earth - now a barren, desolate planet - Sarah, Harry and the Doctor are unaware of a large, watching robot. The robot is the work of Styre, a Sontaran warrior, who uses all humans landing here for his experimental programmes. What has happened to the other space explorers who have come here? Why is Styre so interested in Earth, and in brutally torturing humans, including Sarah Jane? Will the Doctor be able to prevent an invasion, and save both Earth and his companions?

Duration: 4 hours approx
Doctor Who: The Macra TerrorDoctor Who: The Macra Terror
Written by Ian Stuart Black, read by Anneke Wills
Published by BBC Audio 4th August 2016 [pre-order from Amazon UK]

An unabridged reading of this novelisation of a classic 1967 TV adventure featuring the Second Doctor, as played by Patrick Troughton.

In the far future a group of humans is living an idyllic existence on a distant planet. Their colony is run like a gigantic holiday camp, and nothing seems to trouble their carefree existence. When one of them claims that the colony is being invaded by hideous monsters, no-one takes him seriously. But the Doctor's suspicions are immediately
aroused. What is the terrible menace that lurks at the heart of this apparent paradise? Why are the colonists unaw are of the danger that lies before their very eyes? And what is the Macra Terror?

Duration: 3 hours 5 mins
Doctor Who and The Invasion Of Time (no reader announced) (Credit: BBC Audio)Doctor Who and The Invasion Of Time
Written by Terrance Dicks, read by John Leeson
Published by BBC Books 1st September 2016 [pre-order from Amazon UK]

John Leeson reads this exciting novelisation of a classic Fourth Doctor adventure, set on Gallifrey and featuring the Sontarans.

Can the Doctor really be in league with the evil Vardans, spearheading a treacherous invasion of his home planet, Gallifrey? Or is he playing a deadly double game, saving the Time Lords by appearing to betray them? But the Vardans themselves are not the only pawns in the game, and the Doctor faces and old and deadly enemy as he battles to foil the invasion of Time.

Duration: 4 hours approx
Doctor Who: The Time Meddler (no reader announced) (Credit: BBC Audio)Doctor Who: The Time Meddler, reader tba
Written by Nigel Robinson
Published by BBC Books 6th October 2016 [pre-order from Amazon UK]

An unabridged reading of this classic novelisation featuring the First Doctor, and featuring the Meddling Monk.

When the TARDIS materialises on an apparently deserted Nothumbrian beach, Steven disputes the Doctor’s claim that they have travelled back to the eleventh century. The discovery of a modern wristwatch in a nearby forest merely reinforces his opinion.

But it is 1066, the most important date in English history, and the Doctor’s arrival has not gone unnoticed. Observing the appearance of the TARDIS is a mysterious monk, who recognises the time-machine for what it is. He also knows that the Doctor poses a serious threat to his master plan – a plan which, if successful, could alter the future of the entire world...

Duration: 4 hours approx

November sees the release of the third Doctor novelisation Doctor Who And The Day Of The Daleks, written by Terrance Dicks. Also in November comes Tales From The TARDIS Volume 1, a CD boxed set of the adaptations The Curse of Peladon (read by Jon Pertwee), Kinda (read by Peter Davison), Attack of the Cybermen (read by Colin Baker), the anthology Out Of The Darkness (read by Colin Baker and Nicola Bryant), and other short stories (read by Nicholas Courtney and Sophie Aldred), originally released on MP3-CD back in 2004.





FILTER: - BBC Audio

BBC Audio: a collection of Tales

Wednesday, 8 June 2016 - Reported by Chuck Foster
BBC Audio have released details of three collections coming later this year, collating previously released audio tales featuring the Tenth Doctor, Eleventh Doctor and Torchwood:

Tenth Doctor Tales (Credit: BBC Audio)Tenth Doctor Tales
Published by BBC Books 4th August 2016 [pre-order from Amazon UK]

David Tennant, Catherine Tate and Michelle Ryan read this exclusive collection of original audio adventures. Join the Tenth Doctor on these seven adventures in Time and Space, written specially for audio:
  • Pest Control by Peter Anghelides, read by David Tennant
  • The Forever Trap by Dan Abnett, read by Catherine Tate
  • The Nemonite Invasion by David Roden, read by Catherine Tate
  • The Rising Night by Scott Handcock, read by Michelle Ryan.
  • The Day of the Troll by Simon Messingham, read by David Tennant
  • The Last Voyage by Dan Abnett, read by David Tennant
  • Dead Air by James Goss, read by David Tennant
With thrilling music and sound design, these seven adventures are based on the hit BBC TV series.

Duration: 13 hours approx
Torchwood Tales (Credit: BBC Audio)Torchwood Tales
Published by BBC Books 1st September 2016 [pre-order from Amazon UK]

Eve Myles, Gareth David-Lloyd, Kai Owen and others read ten stories based on the hit BBC TV series. Written specially for audio, with additional sound design, the stories feature the original Torchwood line-up including Captain Jack, Gwen, Ianto, Owen and Toshiko, plus Rhys and PC Andy. The titles are:
  • Hidden by Steven Savile, read by Naoko Mori
  • Everyone Says Hello by Dan Abnett, read by Burn Gorman
  • In the Shadows by Joseph Lidster, read by Eve Myles
  • The Sin Eaters by Brian Minchin, read by Gareth David-Lloyd
  • Department X and Ghost Train by James Goss, read by Kai Owen
  • Army of One by Ian Edginton, read by Kai Owen
  • Fallout by David Llewellyn, read by Tom Price
  • Red Skies by Joseph Lidster, read by John Telfer
  • Mr Invincible by Mark Morris, read by Tom Price
Duration: 16 hours approx
Eleventh Doctor Tales (Credit: BBC Audio)Eleventh Doctor Tales
Published by BBC Books 6th October 2016 [pre-order from Amazon UK]

Matt Smith, Arthur Darvill and Meera Syal are among the readers of this exclusive collection of original audio adventures. Join the Eleventh Doctor on journeys in Time and Space in the stories:
  • The Runaway Train by Oli Smith, read by Matt Smith
  • The Ring of Steel by Stephen Cole, read by Arthur Darvill
  • The Jade Pyramid by Martin Day, read by Matt Smith
  • The Hounds of Artemis by James Goss, read by Matt Smith & Clare Corbett
  • The Gemini Contagion by Jason Arnopp, read by Meera Syal
  • Eye of the Jungle by Darren Jones, read by David Troughton
  • Blackout by Oli Smith, read by Stuart Milligan
  • The Art of Death by James Goss, read by Raquel Cassidy
  • Darkstar Academy by Mark Morris, read by Alexander Armstrong
  • Day of the Cockroach by Steve Lyons, read by Arthur Darvill
  • The Nu-Humans by Cavan Scott & Mark Wright, read by Raquel Cassidy
  • The Empty House by Simon Guerrier, read by Raquel Cassidy
  • The Sleepers in the Dust by Darren Jones, read by Arthur Darvill
  • Snake Bite by Scott Handcock, read by Frances Barber
Duration: 15 hours approx.




FILTER: - BBC Audio - Eleventh Doctor - Tenth Doctor - Torchwood

Competition Roundup

Tuesday, 24 May 2016 - Reported by Chuck Foster
A roundup of competitions from Doctor Who News that readers may enter:

The Fourth Doctor Adventures: Gallery of Ghouls

The fourth Doctor continues his adventures alongside Romana and K-9:
When the TARDIS lands in Brighton the Doctor and Romana have the chance to spend some time at the seaside. But with it being too early for the opening of the Pavilion, they have to look elsewhere for their entertainment - perhaps Madame Tissot's travelling waxworks, recently arrived in town? But they're not the only ones interested in her Exposition. When an unusual thief commits an unusual theft, the time travellers are on the case. What exactly is the sinister secret of Goole's Gallery? Is Tissot's heading for a meltdown? And what does it all have to do with the head of Marie Antoinette?
Gallery Of Ghouls (Credit: Big Finish)To be in with a chance to win a digital download of the audio adventure courtesy of Big Finish, simply answer the following question:
The Doctor, Romana and K9 have spent time on Brighton Beach before - or, rather, as is typical with time travel, they will do so later! - name that story.
Please send your answer along with your name and the email address you have registered with Big Finish, plus where you heard about the competition (news site, news app, other website, etc.) to comp-bf4d@doctorwhonews.net with the subject "Deja Vu". The competition is open worldwide, closing date 12th June. Note: entrants must have an active registration with Big Finish in order to be eligible to receive the prize - new registrations can be easily created on the website for free and with no financial obligation.

BBC Audio: The King's Demons

The latest classic novelisation adaptation from BBC Audio sees the fifth Doctor arrive in medieval Britain:
It is 4 March 1215, and the TARDIS materialises in England during a jousting match held in the presence of King John. But it soon becomes apparent to the Doctor that something is very seriously wrong. Why does John express no fear or surprise at the time-travellers' sudden appearance, and indeed welcome them as the King's Demons! And what is the true identity of Sir Gilles, the King's Champion? Very soon the Doctor finds himself involved in a fiendish plan to alter the course of world history by one of his oldest and deadliest enemies.
The King's Demons (Credit: BBC Audio)To be in with a chance to win the audiobook courtesy of BBC Audio, simply answer the following question:
This isn't the first time the Doctor has encountered the Plantagenet family - which incarnation met John's rather more fondly remembered brother Richard?
Please send your answers along with your name, address and where you heard about the competition (news site, news app, other website, etc.) to comp-demons@doctorwhonews.net with the subject "We sing in praise of total war". The competition is open worldwide, closing date 12th June 2016. Only one entry per household will be accepted.

BBC Audio: Shakedown

BBC Audio's latest novel adaptation is Shakedown, originally released as part of the Virgin New Adventures range in 1995:
For thousands of years the Sontarans and the Rutans have fought a brutal war across the galaxy. Now the Sontarans have a secret plan to destroy the Rutan race - a secret plan the Doctor is racing against time to uncover. Only one Rutan spy knows the Sontarans' plans. As he is chased through the galaxy in a desperate bid for his life, he reaches the planet Sentarion - where Professor Bernice Summerfield's research into the history of the Sontaran/Rutan war is turning into an explosive reality...
Shakedown (Credit: BBC Audio)To be in with a chance to win the audiobook courtesy of BBC Audio, simply answer the following question:
The novel Shakedown is based upon the script Terrance Dicks originally wrote for the direct-to-video release Shakedown - Return of the Sontarans in 1994; name one of the main cast from that release who also has a strong connection to Doctor Who on television.
Please send your answers along with your name, address and where you heard about the competition (news site, news app, other website, etc.) to comp-shakedown@doctorwhonews.net with the subject "Moth to the flame". The competition is open worldwide, closing date 12th June 2016. Only one entry per household will be accepted.

Character: Missy figures

It is still possible to enter our competition to win a Character figure of Missy, which runs until 31st May. See the main competition article for full details.




FILTER: - Audio - BBC Audio - Big Finish - Competitions

BBC Audio: Current Competitions

Saturday, 30 April 2016 - Reported by Chuck Foster
We have the following audiobooks available for readers to win, courtesy of BBC Audio; in order to be in with a chance to win simply email us with the answer to the question along with your name, country and where you heard about the competition. All competitions are open worldwide, with a closing date of 8th May 2016. Only one entry per household can be accepted.

The Memory of Winter (Credit: BBC Audio)
[order from Amazon UK]
The Memory of Winter, written by George Mann and read by Jemma Redgrave
Summoned by the Winter family's Calling Card, the TARDIS arrives in 15th Century France. In the shadows of a forest the Doctor and Clara encounter a band of soldiers who are protecting a mysterious young woman. Also travelling with the party is self-confessed amateur historian Julius Winter. Young Joan of Arc is troubled by voices telling her things she should not know about - things concerning the Doctor's own people, the Time Lords. When he realises that an element of the Time War is involved, the Doctor is compelled to discover where Joan is getting her information from. But in doing so, he and Clara are drawn into terrible danger...


Question: George Mann wrote another recent novel involving the Time War, but for which Doctor?
Send your answer to comp-winter@doctorwhonews.net with the subject line "A Winter's Tale".
The Invasion (Credit: BBC Audio)
[order from Amazon UK]
Cybermen: The Invasion, written by Ian Marter and read by David Troughton
Materialising in Outer Space, the TARDIS is attached by a missile fired from the dark side of the moon. Back on Earth, the newly-formed United Nations Intelligence Taskforce (UNIT), led by Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart, is disturbed by a series of UFO sightings over Southern England. Meanwhile, a large consignment of mysterious crates is delivered to the headquarters of International Electromatics, the largest computer and electronics firm in the world. These three seemingly unconnected events are in fact the preparations for a massive Cyberman invasion of Earth, with one aim: the total annihilation of the human race.


Question: what is author Ian Marter better known for within the Doctor Who universe?
Send your answer to comp-invasion@doctorwhonews.net with the subject line "Kilroy was 'ere".
Death to the Daleks (Credit: BBC Audio)
[order from Amazon UK]
Death to the Daleks, written by Terrance Dicks and read by Jon Culshaw
A mysterious power loss strands the Tardis on Exxilon, a sinister fog-shrouded alien planet. The Doctor meets the survivors of a beleaguered expedition from Earth, while Sarah finds a mysterious super-city and becomes a captive of the savage Exxilons. Worst of all, the Doctor's greatest enemies, the Daleks, arrive on a secret mission of their own. The Doctor and Sarah must risk their lives time and again in a desperate attempt to foil the Daleks and save millions of humans from a horrific plague.


Question: where was the Doctor attempting to take Sarah on holiday to before being forced down on Exxilon?
Send your answer to comp-daleks@doctorwhonews.net with the subject line "Oh I do like to be beside the seaside".
Amorality Tale
[order from Amazon UK]
Amorality Tale, written by David Bishop and read by Dan Starkey
When gangster Tommy Ramsey is released from prison, he is determined to retake control of his 1950s East End territory. But new arrivals threaten his grip on illegal activity in the area. An evangelical minister is persuading people to seek redemption from their sins. A new gang is claiming the streets. And a watchmaker called Smith is leading a revolt against the Ramsey Mob's protection racket. When Tommy strikes back at his enemies, a far more terrifying threat is revealed. Within hours the city's air turns into nerve gas and thousands succumb to the choking fumes. London is dying...


Question: Name the character that Dan Starkey portrayed in a televised story alongside Sarah Jane Smith
Send your answer to comp-amorality@doctorwhonews.net with the subject line "Smoggy moments".
Shadow in the Glass (Credit: BBC Audio)
[order from Amazon UK]
Shadow in the Glass, written by Stephen Cole & Justin Richards and read by India Fisher
When an RAF squadron shoots down an unidentified aircraft over Turelhampton, the village is immediately evacuated. But why is the village still guarded by troops in 2001? When a television documentary crew break through the cordon looking for a story, they find they've recorded more than they'd bargained for. Caught up in both a deadly conspiracy and a historical mystery, retired Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart calls upon his old friend the Doctor. Half-glimpsed demons watch from the shadows as the Doctor and the Brigadier travel back in time to discover the last, and deadliest, secret of the Second World War.


Question: Name another story which saw the Doctor travel into Germany's past
Send your answer to comp-shadow@doctorwhonews.net with the subject line "Heil!".




FILTER: - Audio - BBC Audio - Competitions

Competition Roundup

Tuesday, 23 February 2016 - Reported by Chuck Foster
A roundup of further competitions from Doctor Who News that readers may enter:

The Fourth Doctor Adventures: The Labyrinth of Buda Castle

The fourth Doctor continues his adventures alongside Romana and K-9:
The Doctor and Romana land in Budapest, intent on enjoying another holiday, but shortly after landing they find themselves too late to save the life of a man who has seemingly been attacked by a vampire. As they learn that this is the latest in a series of violent attacks, it becomes clear that they have stumbled onto something that needs investigating. Aided by a vampire hunter who is searching for Dracula, they look into the nearby Buda caves, currently being used for storage by the military - and find that the soldiers have problems of their own. Stalked through the tunnels by a monster, and up against an ancient evil, the race is on to escape alive - and foil the dastardly schemes of the maniacal Zoltan Frid.
The Labyrinth Of Buda Castle (Credit: Big Finish)To be in with a chance to win a digital download of the audio adventure courtesy of Big Finish, simply answer the following question:
In which televised story did the Doctor first encounter "Dracula"?
Please send your answer along with your name and the email address you have registered with Big Finish, plus where you heard about the competition (news site, news app, other website, etc.) to comp-bf4d@doctorwhonews.net with the subject "Everything at stake". The competition is open worldwide, closing date 6th March 2016. Note: entrants must have an active registration with Big Finish in order to be eligible to receive the prize - new registrations can be easily created on the website for free and with no financial obligation.

BBC Books: 365 Days of Memorable Moments and Impossible Things

BBC Books are to publish a book examining notable events in Doctor Who during the course of a year next month:
For over half a century, Doctor Who has entertained and enthralled fans with the time-travelling adventures of the Doctor and his companions. From that first glimpse of a police telephone box in a Totter's Lane junkyard, to meeting terrifying villains such as the Daleks or the Weeping Angels, to the fall of the Doctor's home planet Gallifrey, the beloved series has provided a near-inexhaustible list of indelible memories. This book is a unique and captivating day-by-day chronicle of those memories. In this fascinating compilation of fictional and historical events from the world's longest running science-fiction show. Doctor Who expert Justin Richards revisits iconic characters, thrilling plot twists and memorable battles, as well as sharing bonus behind-the-scenes secrets from both the classic and new series.
365 Days of Memorable Moments and Impossible Things (Credit: BBC Books)To be in with a chance to win the book courtesy of BBC Books, simply answer the following question:
The Doctor has on occasion chronicled his own adventures, making reference to them a number of times during his earlier incarnations, but what did he use to do so?
Please send your answers along with your name, address and where you heard about the competition (news site, news app, other website, etc.) to comp-365days@doctorwhonews.net with the subject "One day I shall read back". The competition is open to UK readers only, closing date 6th March 2016. Only one entry per household will be accepted.

BBC Audio: The Space Museum

The next classic novelisation adaptation for 2016 sees the first Doctor catch a glimpse of his own possible future in The Space Museum:
The TARDIS materialises on what, at first sight, appears to be a dry and lifeless planet serving only as a graveyard for spaceships. The Doctor, Ian, Barbara and Vicki discover a magnificent museum housing relics from every corner of the galaxy. These have been assembled by the Moroks, a race of cruel conquerors who have invaded the planet Xeros and enslaved its inhabitants. Upon further exploration the TARDIS crew seem to stumble upon the impossible: for suddenly, facing them in an exhibit case, they find...themselves!
Doctor Who: The Space Museum (Credit: BBC Audio)To be in with a chance to win the audiobook courtesy of BBC Audio, simply answer the following question:
Having been grabbed by Xeron rebels, the Doctor promptly escapes them by hiding in an an unusual way - what does he do?
Please send your answers along with your name, address and where you heard about the competition (news site, news app, other website, etc.) to comp-target@doctorwhonews.net with the subject "The Xerons are revolting". The competition is open worldwide, closing date 6th March 2016. Only one entry per household will be accepted.




FILTER: - BBC Audio - BBC Books - Big Finish - Competitions

BBC Audio: release schedule

Saturday, 13 February 2016 - Reported by Chuck Foster
BBC Audio continue their range of audiobooks based upon the original Target novelisations of Doctor Who stories, with the original, unabridged readings made by well-known actors associated with the series. The release schedule over the next few months cover the first five Doctors:
  • Doctor Who and the State of Decay (Credit: BBC Audio)Geoffrey Beevers reads this exciting novelisation of a 1980 TV adventure featuring the Fourth Doctor, as played by Tom Baker.

    The Doctor, Romana and K9 - and a young stowaway called Adric - are trapped in the alternative universe of E-Space. Seeking help, the land on an unknown planet. There they find a nightmare world where oppressed peasants toil for the Lords who live in the Tower, and where all learning is forbidden: a society in a state of decay. What is the terrifying secret of the Three Who Rule? What monstrous creature stirs beneath the Tower, waking from its thousand year sleep? The Doctor discovers that the oldest and deadliest enemy of the Time Lords is about to spring into horrifying action.

    John Leeson provides the Voice of K9.

  • Doctor Who: The Space Museum (Credit: BBC Audio)An unabridged reading of this novelisation of a classic 1965 TV serial featuring the First Doctor, as played on TV by William Hartnell.

    The TARDIS materialises on what, at first sight, appears to be a dry and lifeless planet serving only as a graveyard for spaceships. The Doctor, Ian, Barbara and Vicki discover a magnificent museum housing relics from every corner of the galaxy. These have been assembled by the Moroks, a race of cruel conquerors who have invaded the planet Xeros and enslaved its inhabitants. Upon further exploration the TARDIS crew seem to stumble upon the impossible: for suddenly, facing them in an exhibit case, they find...themselves!

  • Death to the Daleks (Credit: BBC Audio)An unabridged reading of this classic novelisation, based on a BBC TV adventure featuring the Third Doctor.

    A mysterious power loss strands the TARDIS on Exxilon, a sinister fog-shrouded alien planet. The Doctor meets the survivors of a beleaguered expedition from Earth, while Sarah finds a mysterious super-city and becomes a captive of the savage Exxilons. Worst of all, the Doctor's greatest enemies, the Daleks, arrive on a secret mission of their own. The Doctor and Sarah must risk their lives time and again in a desperate attempt to foil the Daleks and save millions of humans from a horrific plague.

    Nicholas Briggs provides the Voice of the Daleks.

  • The Invasion (Credit: BBC Audio)An unabridged reading of an exciting classic novelisation, based on a TV adventure featuring the Second Doctor, as played by Patrick Troughton.

    Materialising in Outer Space, the TARDIS is attached by a missile fired from the dark side of the moon. Back on Earth, the newly-formed United Nations Intelligence Taskforce (UNIT), led by Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart, is disturbed by a series of UFO sightings over Southern England. Meanwhile, a large consigment of mysterious crates is delivered to the headquarters of International Electromatix, the largest computer and electronics firm in the world. These three seemingly unconnected events are in fact the preparations for a massive Cyberman invasion of Earth, with one aim: the total annihilation of the human race.

    Nicholas Briggs provides the Voice of the Cybermen.

  • The King's Demons (Credit: BBC Audio)An unabridged reading of an exciting novelisation, based on a TV adventure featuring the Fifth Doctor, as played by Peter Davison.

    It is 4 March 1215, and the TARDIS materialises in England during a jousting match held in the presence of King John. It soon becomes apparent to the Doctor that something is very wrong. Why does John express no fear or surprise at the time travellers' sudden appearance, and indeed welcome them as the King's Demons? And what is the true identity of Sir Gilles, the King's Champion? Very soon the Doctor finds himself involved in a fiendish plan to alter the course of world history, by one of his oldest and deadliest enemies.

  • Doctor Who and The Claws of Axos (Credit: BBC Audio)An unabridged reading of this classic novelisation of an adventure featuring the Third Doctor, as played on TV by Jon Pertwee.

    'Axos calling Earth, Axos calling Earth...’

    The creatures stood before them, offering friendship and their priceless Axonite, in return for - what? Only the Doctor remains suspicious. What is the real reason for the Axon’s sudden arrival on Earth? And why is the evil Master a passenger on their spaceship? He very soon finds out...

    The reader of this audiobook has yet to be revealed.
  • Doctor Who and The Sontaran Experiment (Credit: BBC Audio)July: Doctor Who and the Sontaran Experiment, written by Ian Marter

    An unabridged reading of this classic novelisation of a Fourth Doctor TV adventure from 1975.

    Landing on Earth - now a barren, desolate planet - Sarah, Harry and the Doctor are unaware of a large, watching robot. The robot is the work of Styre, a Sontaran warrior, who uses all humans landing here for his experimental programmes. What has happened to the other space explorers who have come here? Why is Styre so interested in Earth, and in brutally torturing humans, including Sarah Jane? Will the Doctor be able to prevent an invasion, and save both Earth and his companions?

    The reader of this audiobook has yet to be revealed.

Meanwhile, other audiobook adaptations of novels and original recordings include:
  • The Witch Hunters (Credit: BBC Audio)David Collings reads this original novel adventure for the First Doctor and his companions, set in the 17th Century during the Salem Witch Trials.

    With the Doctor wanting to repair the TARDIS in peace, his companions Barbara, Ian and Susan decide to get some experience of living in the nearby village of Salem. But the Doctor knows about the horrors destined to engulf the village and determines that they should leave. Susan has her own ideas, and is desperate to return to Salem, whatever the cost. Yet her actions will lead them all into terrible danger, and cause the tragedy that is already unfolding to escalate out of control.

    Featuring the First Doctor, as played on TV by William Hartnell.

  • Shadow in the Glass (Credit: BBC Audio)An unabridged reading of this original BBC Books novel featuring the Sixth Doctor, as played on TV by Colin Baker.

    When an RAF squadron shoots down an unidentified aircraft over Turelhampton, the village is immediately evacuated. But why is the village still guarded by troops in 2001? When a television documentary crew break through the cordon looking for a story, they find they've recorded more than they'd bargained for. Caught up in both a deadly conspiracy and a historical mystery, retired Brigadier Lethbridge-Stewart calls upon his old friend the Doctor. Half-glimpsed demons watch from the shadows as the Doctor and the Brigadier travel back in time to discover the last, and deadliest, secret of the Second World War.

  • The Memory of Winter (Credit: BBC Audio)Jemma Redgrave reads this brand new, original adventure for the 12th Doctor and Clara.

    In 15th Century France the time travellers encounter a band of soldiers protecting a mysterious young woman. Joan of Arc is troubled by voices, telling her things she should not know about: things concerning the Doctor's own people, the Time Lords. Compelled to discover where she is getting the information from, the Doctor and Clara are drawn into danger.

    Written by George Mann (author of The Engines of War and The House of Winter), the story is read by Jemma Redgrave, who plays Kate Lethbridge-Stewart in the TV series.

  • Amorality TaleAn unabridged reading of this original novel featuring the Third Doctor, as played on TV by Jon Pertwee, and his companion Sarah Jane Smith.

    When gangster Tommy Ramsey is released from prison, he is determined to retake control of his 1950s East End territory. But new arrivals threaten his grip on illegal activity in the area. An evangelical minister is persuading people to seek redemption from their sins. A new gang is claiming the streets. And a watchmaker called Smith is leading a revolt against the Ramsey Mob's protection racket. When Tommy strikes back at his enemies, a far more terrifying threat is revealed. Within hours the city's air turns into nerve gas and thousands succumb to the choking fumes. London is dying...

  • Shakedown (Credit: BBC Audio)An unabridged reading of this original novel featuring the Seventh Doctor, as played on TV by Sylvester McCoy.

    For thousands of years the Sontarans and the Rutans have fought a brutal war across the galaxy. Now the Sontarans have a secret plan to destroy the Rutan race – a secret plan the Doctor is racing against time to uncover. Only one Rutan spy knows the Sontarans’ plan. As he is chased through the galaxy in a desperate bid for his life, he reaches the planet Sentarion – where Professor Bernice Summerfield’s research into the history of the Sontaran-Rutan war is turning
    into an explosive reality...

  • Credit: BBC AudioAn unabridged reading of Paul Cornell's novelisation based on his animated drama of the same name.

    When the Doctor lands his TARDIS in the Lancashire town of Lannet, in the present day, he finds that something is terribly wrong. The people are scared. They don't like going out onto the streets at night, they don't like making too much noise, and they certainly don't like strangers asking too many questions. What alien force has invaded the town? Why is it watching barmaid Alison Cheney? And what plans does it have for the future of the planet Earth? The Doctor is helped (and hindered) by his new military liaison Major Kennet and his Royal Green Jacket troop. His old enemy the Master also plays a small part. During the course of this adventure he encounters a brand new race of ferocious alien monsters, and strikes up a friendship with his latest companion, Alison.

    While starting with a small community under threat, this old-fashioned, very traditional but very up to date Doctor Who adventure takes in the entire world, from New Zealand to India, Siberia to the USA, and cosmic expanses beyond.

    The reader of this audiobook has yet to be revealed.

  • Illegal Alien (Credit: BBC Audio)An unabridged reading of this original novel featuring the Seventh Doctor, as played on TV by Sylvester McCoy, and Ace in an encounter with the Cybermen.

    The Blitz is at its height. As the Luftwaffe bomb London, Cody McBridge, ex-pat American private eye, sees a sinister silver sphere crash-land. He glimpses something emerging from within. The military dismiss his account of events - the sphere must be a new German secret weapon that has malfunctioned. What else could it be? Arriving amid the chaos, the Doctor and Ace embark on a trail that brings them face to face with hidden Nazi agents and some very old enemies...

    The reader of this audiobook has yet to be revealed.





FILTER: - BBC Audio - Merchandise

BBC Audio: September releases

Wednesday, 2 September 2015 - Reported by Chuck Foster
This month sees two classic Target novelisations released as audio books: the sixth/second Doctor adventure The Two Doctors by Robert Holmes, originally published in December 1985 and read here by the sixth Doctor himself, Colin Baker; and The Curse of Fenric by Ian Briggs, featuring the seventh Doctor and originally published in November 1990, here read by "Davros" actor Terry Molloy (this latter release having been brought forward in the schedule from November, swapping places with Royal Blood).

Further audio books based on novelisations will continue into the next year. December sees the first historic pairing of Sarah Jane Smith and K-9 in Terence Dudley's K-9 And Company, whilst in the new year the fourth Doctor encounters an ancient Time Lord menace in Doctor Who and the State of Decay (by Terrance Dicks). February then jumps a time track back to the first Doctor's visit to The Space Museum (by Glyn Jones), followed in March by an exploration of one the seven wonders of the universe by the third Doctor in Death to the Daleks (also by Terrance Dicks). In April its 'friends reunited' as the second Doctor and the Brigadier face the Cybermen in The Invasion (by Ian Marter), and then in May the fifth Doctor becomes one of "The King's Demons" and confronts an old adversary in 13th Century England (also by Terence Dudley). Note: schedules for these and other BBC Audio releases are subject to change.

The Two Doctors (Credit: BBC Audio)The Two Doctors
Written by Robert Holmes, read by Colin Baker
Released 3rd September 2015 [order]

Colin Baker reads this exciting classic novelisation of a Sixth Doctor TV adventure

Disturbed by the time travel experiments being conducted on Space Station J7, the Time Lords send the second Doctor and Jamie to investigate. Arriving on the station in deep space, they are attacked by a shock force of Sontarans, and the Doctor is left for dead.

Across the gulfs of Time and Space, the Sixth Doctor discovers that his former incarnation is very much alive. Together with Peri and Jamie he must rescue his other self before the plans of scientist Dastari, and the ruthless augmented Androgum Chessene, reach their deadly and shocking conclusion...

Colin Baker, who played Sixth Doctor in the BBC TV series, reads Robert Holmes' complete and unabridged novelisation, first published by Target Books in 1985.

Competition

To be in with a chance to win a copy of the audio book The Two Doctors courtesy of BBC Audio, answer the following question:
What race does Jamie first mis-identify Chessene as, before the (sixth) Doctor corrects him?
Please send your answers along with your name, address and where you heard about the competition (news site, news app, other website, etc.) to comp-twodoctorscd@doctorwhonews.net with the subject "Yes, Jamie, it is a big one...". The competition is open world-wide, closing date: 27th September 2015. Only one entry per household will be accepted.
The Curse Of Fenric (Credit: BBC Audio)The Curse of Fenric
Written by Ian Briggs, read by Terry Molley
Released 3rd September 2015 [order]

Terry Molloy reads this exciting classic novelisation of a Seventh Doctor TV adventure

At a North Yorkshire naval base in 1943, Dr Judson is using his ULTIMA code-breaking machine to decipher the runic inscriptions in the crypt of the nearby church.

Meanwhile, Commander Millington is obsessed with his research into the toxic bombs that he insists will hasten the end of World War Two. When a squad of the Russian Red Army lands on the nearby coast, with instructions to steal the ULTIMA machine, they are unaware that Millington had turned it into a devastating secret weapon.

Into this scenario materialises the Doctor and Ace. Ace isn't impressed with the security arrangements or the fashions - but the Doctor had graver matters on his mind. Beneath the waters at Maidens Point, an ancient evil stirs. The Doctor uncovers mysteries concealed within villainous plots - but what connects them all to a thousand-year curse?

Terry Molloy, who played Davros in Doctor Who, reads Ian Briggs' complete and unabridged novelisation, first published by Target Books in 1990.

Competition

To be in with a chance to win a copy of the audio book The Curse Of Fenric courtesy of BBC Audio, answer the following question:
What is the trigger word to release the toxin hidden inside the ULTIMA machine?
Please send your answers along with your name, address and where you heard about the competition (news site, news app, other website, etc.) to comp-fenriccd@doctorwhonews.net with the subject "Flip Flops are ace!". The competition is open world-wide, closing date: 27th September 2015. Only one entry per household will be accepted.




FILTER: - Audio - BBC Audio - Competitions - Seventh Doctor - Sixth Doctor

Competition Roundup

Monday, 24 August 2015 - Reported by Chuck Foster
Doctor Who News have a number of prizes courtesy of BBC Books and BBC Audio available to win in competitions, as detailed below! In order to enter, please send your answer along with your name, address and where you saw the competition to the respective email address - please note whether the competition is worldwide or UK only. Only one entry per household will be accepted.

The closing date for all competitions will be Sunday 6th September.

Doctor Who and The Ark in Space (BBC Audio)
The audiobook of the Target novelisation, originally written by Ian Marter and read by Jon Culshaw.
Name the insect-like race that have infested the Ark, as described by Ian Marter in the original Target novelisation.
Send your answer to comp-thearkincd@doctorwhonews.net with your details as mentioned at the top using the subject line "Noah's Ark". Open worldwide.
The Drosten's Curse (BBC Books)
An original fourth Doctor novel written by A.L. Kennedy
Name the original story by the author upon which The Drosten's Curse is based.
Send your answer to comp-drostenbook@doctorwhonews.net with your details as mentioned at the top using the subject line "Don't go into the bunker...". Open to UK readers only.
The Drosten's Curse (BBC Audio)
The audiobook of A.L. Kennedy's novel, read by Clare Corbett
Amongst the several Doctor Who books read by Clare Corbett, name a book which also featured on screen within an actual episode of the series.
Send your answer to comp-drostencd@doctorwhonews.net with your details as mentioned at the top using the subject line "Fetch!". Open worldwide.
Human Nature (BBC Audio)
The audiobook of the original Virgin New Adventures novel by Paul Cornell, read by Lisa Bowerman
Name the alien antagonists that are hunting for the Doctor in the novel.
Send your answer to comp-humannaturecd@doctorwhonews.net with your details as mentioned at the top using the subject line "Mr Smith, you're needed!". Open worldwide.
The Gods Of Winter (BBC Audio)
An original audio adventure by James Goss, read by Clare Higgins
What does the Doctor and Clara's initial mission for Diana Winter involve?
Send your answer to comp-godsofwintercd@doctorwhonews.net with your details as mentioned at the top using the subject line "When Winter calls". Open worldwide.
The Glamour Chronicles (Royal Blood, Deep T:me, Big Bang Generation) (BBC Books)
Three new novels featuring the twelfth Doctor and Clara (prize bundle)
Name another BBC Book to feature Glamour.
Send your answer to comp-glamourbooks@doctorwhonews.net with your details as mentioned at the top using the subject line "When Winter calls". Open to UK readers only.

Competition Prizes (Credit: BBC Books/BBC Audio)




FILTER: - BBC Audio - Books - Competitions