Avid Doctor Who fans are outraged that the BBC has asked them to contribute new story ideas – for free.

Sci-fi stalwarts were sent a newsletter from BBC Studios looking to exploit their knowledge.

The email said: “In the latest Doctor Who survey we are keen to hear from a wide range of fans and viewers: from those joining with Jodie, to those with a far-reaching knowledge into the classic adventures of Doctor Who.

“We want to hear about any intriguing un-told stories and stories ripe for reimagining.”

The survey also asked fans to state which historical periods they would like the Doctor to visit or revisit.

The next series, written by Chris Chibnall, is currently being filmed but will not air until 2020.

Chris Kocher said: “I refused to give free story ideas. Supplied my email address and asked someone to commission me instead.”

Fellow fan Cliff Chapman agreed, wondering: “For new books? Or for TV? Is Chibnall’s imagination THAT barren? (Wait, of course it is...)”

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BBC Studios argued: “We often seek input from Doctor Who fans who kindly volunteer their views about products or events they would like to see more of. In this case, we had a list of stories we wanted to tell across multiple publishing partners but wanted to get our audience’s opinions on what stories better resonated with them.”

Ah, right.