Crystal Maze set to return and look who's hosting

It’s been way too long since we last journeyed through The Crystal Maze – whisked through the Aztec, Industrial, Futuristic and Medieval Zones while Richard O’Brien called out for his “Mumsy” and contestants cocked up the most basic of tasks ­– but the hits Nineties show is about to return to TV this October.

The one-off celebrity special is part of Channel 4’s Stand Up To Cancer programming, with former Doctor Who actor David Tennant rumoured to take over the slightly bonkers hosting duties. He would replace original host O’Brien (legend) and successor Ed Tudor Pole (not quite as good, let’s be honest).

For those who never saw the show – and honestly, where were you? – the original show ran from 1990-95 and pit a team of track-suited contestants against various challenges and puzzles, dubbed as either Skill, Physical, Mental, or Mystery.

Of course, it was always nice to see them win a crystal and grab five precious seconds in the mammoth Crystal Dome, but the real beauty was watching a contestant fumble some 3D jigsaw and get locked in, while their teammates screamed quite simple instructions through the door.

Though all slightly ludicrous, the show was a massive hit and remains a nostalgic favourite. A real-life interactive Crystal Maze experience opened earlier this year, leaving an entire generation of fans quivering in their tracksuits. We even got to run through it ourselves.

Tennant’s particular brand of whimsical charm sounds spot on for a Crystal Maze relaunch – and if the one-off special is a ratings hit, the show could get the TFI Friday treatment and return for another full series.

There’s only one thing left to say: “Will you start the fans please!”