The controller of BBC One has offered an explanation for why there won’t be a season of Doctor Who this year.

The BBC has announced Steven Moffat will step down as Doctor Who showrunner at the end of the next season.

As rumoured for some time, Season 10 will not air in 2016. Instead there will be just a Christmas special and BBC Three’s upcoming spin-off, Class.

Steven Moffat’s sixth and final season in charge will air in spring 2017, with Broadchurch creator Chris Chibnall’s first season as Doctor Who showrunner airing 2018.

> Here’s everything we know so far about Season 10.

Discussing the reason for Season 10’s delay, Charlotte Moore, Controller of BBC One commented: “I have decided to schedule Steven’s big finale series in spring 2017 to bring the nation together for what will be a huge event on the channel.”

She said: “2016 is spoilt with national moments including the Euros and Olympics and I want to hold something big back for 2017 – I promise it will be worth the wait!”

Moore added: “I would also like to take this opportunity to welcome Chris Chibnall, a wonderfully talented writer who I know will bring something very special to the hit series.”

> Buy the complete Season 9 box set on DVD on Amazon.

> Buy the complete Season 9 box set on Blu-ray on Amazon.

How do you feel about the delay? Let us know below…