Cat Amongst the Pigeons

This Dennis Spooner episode has always been one of my favorites of the series, since I saw it on its first airing back in 1976.

The story involves a reclusive man who has seemingly found a way to mesmerize the birds at his sanctuary into doing his bidding, grouping en masse to take out his enemies - not unlike the scenes in the classic Hitchcock film.

The whole story is intriguing and atmospheric, and makes good use of its locations - especially the much-used St Hubert's House near Pinewood Studios, which always looks good on film.

There's humor too, and great interaction between the three Avengers as they attempt to outwit their unusual foe - nicely played by Vladek Sheybal.

The story of a madman bent on revenge by extraordinary means is at the core of many classic Avengers episodes of the 60s, and the idea is well played out here for the 70s audience.

For someone who's never seen The New Avengers and is maybe wary of i being as good as they originals, this would certainly be a great place to start.