"And incidentally, a happy Christmas to all of you at home!"

Firstly, I refuse to apologise for using the above go-to festive quote with such fearful inevitability. So there.

Secondly, and slightly more saliently, SWD? will continue to review, pick apart, and otherwise waffle on about stories from all eras of the series in the New Year. So, stand by for friendly Daleks, Russell T Davies’ take on the Seventh Doctor, unpronounceable Tibetans, and – of course! – Matt Smith in a Santa hat! (And the rest of his clothes as well. Probably.)

Also, stay tuned for a couple of slightly different new things, too… Oooh!

Oh, alright then - and, merry Christmas!

Next Time: A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Peter McKinstry

As a long-term concept designer on the new series, there are understandably loads of interesting images on Peter McKinstry’s website. His graphics-based illustration has become quite familiar, so it's particularly interesting seeing such a recognisable style applied to a pre-existing design. I love the Tenth Planet-style Cybermen – sort of creepy, medical zombies – and McKinstry has really tapped into this with his grotesque, almost Hellraiser-like take on the design. 

Much as I appreciate the ostensible art deco/Metropolis influence on the new series Cybermen that actually appeared in series two, in practice they’re a bit too clunky and robotic. Unused designs are always going to be fascinating, so it's unsurprising that I can't help wishing what had made it onto the screen could have been more like this. It's cool that McKinstry drew on influences from so far back, but I suppose it was always unlikely that the new series' Cybermen were ever going to depart so radically from more typical Invasion/Earthshock versions. 

Whatever. I also like the ‘Blind Fury’ book cover or poster - or whatever it is - that’s included with his series five designs. I dunno what it’s all about, but I like it. "Sleep no more, sons of Gallifrey," indeed.