James Skinsale

Colonel James Skinsale was a MP in the early 20th century. He had spent some time in India while in the army. Skinsale was on a boat trip with Lord Palmerdale in that latter's steam yacht. Palmerdale's secretary, Adelaide Lessage and Harker were also on board. The yacht crashed onto Fang Rock and they climbed ashore, where they met the Fourth Doctor and Leela. It seemed that Skinsale may have had feelings for Leela as he did describe her as "not a bad looker".

On the island there was a Rutan. The Rutan killed Colonel Skinsale as its final victim.

Skinsale was being blackmailed by Palmerdale, who knew a secret that, if made public, would have ruined him. Skinsale was so determined to keep his secret, he sabotaged the telegraph, the only communication to the mainland. (TV: Horror of Fang Rock)