Inspired by Soaps and Fans
According to The Discontinuity Guide, this story was inspired by the observation that obsessive fans of Crossroads (Britain's worst ever daytime soap) appeared to believe the characters were real.

Leonard Maltin really didn't get on with this version The Thing: "…non-stop parade of slimy, repulsive special effects turns this into a freak show and drowns most of the suspense."

When the kids had killed the man I had to break up the band.

But I have not been to Oxford town…

Time Slot and Audience
Great start and write up Christopher.