The official press-release reads: “An Adventure in Space and Time will tell the story of the genesis of Doctor Who since its first broadcast on 23 November 1963. Exploring all aspects of the longest running science fiction series to date, the special one off 90 minute drama will also look at the many personalities involved in bringing the series to life.”

The long-rumoured project will be executive produced by current Doctor Who execs Steven Moffat and Caroline Skinner.

Moffat commented: “The story of Doctor Who is the story of television, so it’s fitting in the anniversary year that we make our most important journey back in time to see how the Tardis was launched.”

Gatiss added: “This is the story of how an unlikely set of brilliant people created a true Television original. And how an actor – William Hartnell – stereotyped in hard-man roles became a hero to millions of children. I’ve wanted to tell this story this for more years than I can remember! To make it happen for Doctor Who‘s 50th birthday is quite simply a dream come true.”

The writer also confirmed the news on Twitter this morning: “Thrilled to announce I’m writing a long-cherished drama about the creation of Doctor Who!”

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Watch a clip from A History of Horror with Mark Gatiss…