The Year In Drama: October 2002

Andrew Davies' adaptation of the Sarah Waters novel Tipping The Velvet proved to be a big talking point this month. Before the drama had even been broadcast, its explicit content had caused a stir. The show provoked a strong response from viewers posting to the drama message board, with an even split between those who thought it was the best piece of television they'd ever seen to those who accused it of bordering on pantomime. Whether you loved or hated it, there was no denying Tipping The Velvet's popularity with over 5 million people tuning in for the first episode, and a new star being born in the form of Rachael Stirling.

Elsewhere, Liza Tarbuck returned as the man-eating Linda Green with a star studded guest cast including Peter Kay, Jamie Theakston, Jeremey Sheffield and Martin Freeman. And there was a second series for the BBC TWO drama Babyfather, supported by a hugely popular story-writing contest on the show's website.