The best Dr Who

Saturday, and The News took a look at 1997 for its Retro series.

I note that Jon Pertwee sadly perished in this year. A thespian of some note, his career had its roots in vaudeville, embracing wireless (The Navy Lark) and branching out to include small-screen parts( the Carry-on films and the much-loved Wurzel Gummidge).

His notion of a sabbatical was to accept the keys of the Tardis from Patrick Troughton (the second Doctor Who) and to journey across time and space playing the eponymous part in the BBC's sciencefiction drama Dr Who.

With his aristocratic profile, platinum locks and let's not forget that superb nose, he brought his own style of eccentricity to the character, his genial nature adopting the metaphor of a truthseeking dowsing rod, its eager tip plunging the depths of alien cultures.

Jon Pertwee's Dr Who was, in my opinion, the most versatile example of the intrepid time traveller.

His Doctor was able to, with aplomb, invite himself to dine with the timelord council of elders at their feasting table and to sup upon their vintage burgundies, yet be equally adept should the need arise at capturing a mutant, goat-sized bluebottle utilising his cloak in the manner of the bullfighter.

His dress sense was vibrant – dare one venture to suggest bohemian – with his lofty frame encased within frock coats and fancy cloaks. Certainly, he donned the attire that qualified him as the artistic and sensitive aesthetic, yet he was very much a ladies' man.

He was erudite and well-spoken and his noble features bestowed a commanding presence, both on and off screen.

Anthony Fenlon Bursledon Road, Waterlooville