Producer Scott Handcock said: "This trilogy is a testament to James's writing. The combination of characters like the War Master, Bernice and Captain John together is joyfully bizarre.

"The rivalry between the Master and Captain John is a lot of fun, because the Master in the Derek Jacobi incarnation is one of the most effective and ruthless, and he's up against Captain John - who he needs - but is looking at thinking, 'Can you just get some table manners? Can you just grow up?'"

Actor Jonathon Carley added: "In terms of great antagonists, it's really two for the price of one. When I was first contacted about this story and told Captain John was in it, I thought 'Oh wow!' And then to have the classic pairing of the Doctor versus the Master is the icing on the cake.

"A lot of listeners have wanted to see the War Doctor face the War Master for some time. And it’s brilliant that we're able to touch upon that in a way that I don't think anyone will predict. It's not just a standard story, it's an innovative way of approaching it, which is fresh and interesting."