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Doctor Who's TARDIS 'to get a wheelchair ramp'

Ncuti Gatwa will become the new Time Lord in 2023 credit:Bang Showbiz
Ncuti Gatwa will become the new Time Lord in 2023 credit:Bang Showbiz

Doctor Who's TARDIS is getting a wheelchair ramp.

The BBC sci-fi series - which will see Ncuti Gatwa take over from Jodie Whittaker as the titular Time Lord in 2023 - will reportedly feature a wheelchair-accessible ramp on the iconic time machine to accommodate upcoming cast members.

A source said: "These modifications aren’t just a sign of changing times, they’re also down to some of the characters who’ll feature on the show. Returning to the cast for the specials – which are set to air next year with David Tennant alongside Catherine Tate – will be wheelchair user Bernard Cribbins as Wilfred Mott."

The insider went on to tease that 'Years and Years' star Ruth Madeley - who uses a wheelchair - could also be joining the cast for the upcoming series.

The source told The Sun newspaper's TV Biz column: "And there are rumours that disabled actress Ruth Madeley could also be joining the cast in the new shows after Jodie Whittaker has quit as the doctor."

Over the course of its 60-year history, the police box - which is known for being far bigger on the inside - has undergone several changes, and while it started off in a totally flat state, it currently includes a hexagonal set of steps that lead to an entrance.

'Sex Education' star Ncuti - who will become the first black person to assume the Doctor role - previously described his casting as a "true honour" and promised fans he would "try to do [his] best" in the part.

Speaking after the casting announcement, the actor said: "It feels really amazing. It's a true honour. This role is an institution and it's so iconic. I feel very grateful to have had the baton handed over and I'm going to try to do my best."