This release is one of a series of CDs from the BBC, providing fans with audio versions of missing stories in the 60s and 70s the BBC had a bad habit of erasing tapes after the programmes had been broadcast. Where they have been able to source reasonable quality soundtracks from lost episodes, they have reproduced them on CD with a linking narration to make up for the lack of visuals.

"The Savages" is a four-episode, Hartnell-era story first transmitted in May 1966. It marks the Who scripting debut of Ian Stuart Black (who would go on to script another two stories) and the departure from the series of Peter Purves (playing Steven, one of the Doctor's travelling companions). In an welcome fit of nostalgia, the producers of this CD release have dragged Peter Purves out of mothballs to provide the linking narration... and a fine job he does of it.

The story itself is quite interesting, if based on a rather well worn SF theme of dichotomous yet linked societies (one primitive, the other advanced), with one being exploited by the other. The solution to the dilemma is well handled, and the characters interesting... if it falls down anywhere, it is with the somewhat contrived circumstances of Steven's departure.

All up it's a pretty good double-CD that's worth a listen.