Christopher Eccleston might not be reprising his role as the Ninth Doctor in the 50th anniversary special (despite being approached), but he has talked about the 100th.

In a special message at the BFI’s 50th celebration of the Ninth Doctor, Eccleston said: “I love the BFI. I love the Doctor and hope you enjoy this presentation. Joe Ahearne directed five of the 13 episodes of the first series. He understood the tone the show needed completely – strong, bold, pacy visuals coupled with wit, warmth and a twinkle in the performances.

He added: “If Joe agrees to direct the 100th anniversary special, I will bring my sonic and a stair-lift and – providing the Daleks don’t bring theirs – I, the ninth Doctor, wow to save the universe and all you apes in it.”

Eccleston may be jesting, but it’s nice to see a comment like this from a Doctor who often gets a hard time from those who believe he has a bad attitude towards the show.