Former Doctor Who star Christopher Eccleston turned down the chance to star in the 50th anniversary episode of the long-running sci-fi show.

The actor, who played the ninth reincarnation of the Time Lord when the BBC revived the show in 2005, met writer Steven Moffat to discuss the anniversary.

A BBC spokeswoman said: "Chris met with Steven Moffat a couple of times to talk about Steven's plans for the Doctor Who 50th Anniversary episode. After careful thought, Chris decided not to be in the episode. He wishes the team all the best."

Download the new Independent Premium app Sharing the full story, not just the headlines

At least one living former doctor - David Tennant - will return for the one-off show after it was announced he and Billie Piper, who played companion Rose Tyler for two series, will join the current Doctor, played by Matt Smith, in the programme.

But fans might still get the chance to see Eccleston's portrayal of The Doctor as show bosses are rumoured to be planning to use old footage of previous doctors for the special show.

PA