Eric Saward was born in December 1944 and attended school until the age of 18, marking the beginning of his educational journey. Following his formal education, he briefly worked as an estate agent before making a significant life change by relocating to Holland, where he resided for three years and even got married during that period. After his return to England, he took on a variety of jobs, including roles as a publisher's proof editor and a bookshop sales assistant, showcasing his adaptability and willingness to learn.
As he continued to grow and explore his career options, he decided to pursue a path in education and became an English teacher, where he honed his skills and gained valuable experience. Additionally, he started writing and found success with drama scripts for radio, with his first accepted play being titled "The Fall and Fall of David Moore." This early success likely instilled in him a sense of confidence and motivation to continue writing.
As he approached his 30th birthday, Eric made the bold decision to leave teaching behind and dedicate himself to a full-time writing career. To supplement his income, he took on various odd jobs, including a stint as a self-taught electrician in the theatre, where he worked on productions such as "Hair" and "The Canterbury Tales" at the Phoneix in Shaftesbury Avenue. This unique blend of creative and technical skills likely served him well in his future endeavors.
Eric's writing career received a significant boost when he was approached by Doctor Who script editor Christopher H. Bidmead, who had been recommended to him by the senior drama script editor at BBC radio. Impressed by Eric's ideas, Bidmead commissioned him to write the season 19 story "The Visitation," which ultimately led to Eric being appointed as Bidmead's successor.
After his departure from the Doctor Who series, Eric continued to work as a freelance writer, including for German radio, where his scripts were translated into German for production. This experience likely broadened his perspective and allowed him to connect with audiences from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. Throughout his career, Eric has demonstrated his versatility, adaptability, and dedication to his craft, making him a notable figure in the world of writing.
