Irongron

Irongron was a 13th century (TV: The Sontaran Experiment) robber baron who had taken control of a castle in Wessex. He slew the castle's previous residents and his raids were a thorn in the side of Edward of Wessex, who didn't currently have sufficient men-at-arms to stop him. Irongron despised and envied Edward for having better quality food, drink, and weapons, and plotted to "relieve him of some of his abundance".

The Sontaran Linx bargained with Irongron, asking for a place to hide his spaceship and the means to fix it, in return for some of his advanced weaponry, an offer which Irongron readily accepted. Both men quickly grew to despise each other, with Irongron angry Linx wouldn't come when wished and repeatedly insulted him (and vice versa). He struggled to master the guns Linx had built for him.

His men captured Edward's scribe, Eric; unable to understand "Norman scribbles" (a cover for not being able to read), he had Linx forced to Eric to reveal his master's plan. While outside his castle the day after, Irongron was almost shot at by an archer called Hal, sent by Edward. Hal was captured, and Irongron challenged him to face a Robot Knight, a gift from Linx. Hal won, but only when the Third Doctor shot the control device from his hand. When the Doctor fled his castle, Irongron tried to kill him before he escaped. Hal disarmed him.

Soon after, Irongron launched an attack on Edward's castle, Wessex Castle, which was quickly repelled through the efforts of the Doctor, forcing Irongron's retreat. Upon his return, Irongron was given a second robot knight by Linx. Irongron tested the knight by fighting it and losing to it, only to discover the Doctor was wearing the suit. Irongron had his men capture the Doctor and used him for target practice with their new guns. The Doctor escaped with the help of Sarah Jane Smith.

Sarah Jane, disguised as a serving wench, had earlier infiltrated Irongron's kitchen, and drugged the food. The food quickly put Irongron and his men to sleep. Irongron awoke before the rest of his men, discovering Hal attempting to disarm them. Throwing him aside, Irongron went after Linx, accusing him of treachery, and attacked the Sontaran. Linx then fatally shot him. (TV: The Time Warrior)

Behind the Scenes

 * Barry Letts wanted Bob Hoskins for the role. He was unavailable, but he did recommend David Daker.