Chris Parsons

Chris Parsons was a post-graduate student of Cambridge University and a colleague of Professor Chronotis in 1979.

Early life
Chris's year of birth differed by accounts; Chronotis told the Eighth Doctor that Chris was born in 1957, (WC: Shada) but told the Fourth Doctor that he was instead born 1956. (HOMEVID: Shada)

Chris was educated at Bristol Grammar School, and also attended St John's College, (PROSE: Shada) graduating in 1978 with an honours degree in chemistry. (WC: Shada) He tookto introducing himself as "Chris Parsons, Bristol Grammar School and John's" — which led the Fourth Doctor calling him "Bristol". (PROSE: Shada)

The Shada conundrum
While doing post-graduate studies in sigma particles, he inadvertently borrowed The Worshipful and Ancient Law of Gallifrey from the Professor's library while looking for books on carbon dating. Surprised at the unusual properties the book exhibited, Chris attempted to analyse it with the aid of Clare Keightley. They later helped the Doctor defeat Skagra's plans. (WC: Shada)

Behind the scenes

 * The Doctor's calling Chris "Bristol" was an unscripted ad-lib by Tom Baker.