MIRROR ONLINE CLAIMS ECCLESTON NOT TO RETURN AS NINTH DOCTOR

Eccleston: 'not in the episode'

News just in from Mirror Online: apparently Ninth Doctor Christoper Eccleston has declined to take part in the eagerly anticipated 50th anniversary episode of Doctor Who, due to air later this year.

"The BBC has confirmed that although the Ninth Doctor thespian met with show runner Steven Moffat last year to discuss potential involvement, the 49-year-old declined to sign up for the project. 'Chris met with Steven Moffat a couple of times to talk about Steven's plans for the Doctor Who 50th Anniversary episode,' a spokesperson told Mirror Online. “After careful thought, Chris decided not to be in the episode. He wishes the team all the best."

We're a bit disappointed to hear this news, but are holding on to the possibility that it's a cunning smokescreen designed to keep details of the forthcoming episode under wraps.

We'll bring you more news when – and if – we have it!