The BBC is lining up a new drama about pirates and a version of The Three Musketeers to take the place of Doctor Who during its 2009 break, according to a report.

A modern adaptation of the French novel is being developed in-house at the corporation, says MediaGuardian.

Meanwhile, independent producer Kudos, which was behind Life on Mars, is said to be working on a family drama about pirates.

The BBC has also previously confirmed it is working on a fantasy series based on the legend of Merlin.

Any and all of the three could apparently fill the Doctor Who primetime Saturday slot in 2009.

A BBC spokeswoman said: "We are always looking for exciting new projects to add to the mix of dramas on BBC1.

"The Three Musketeers and Pirates are in the early stages of development. It is therefore too early to confirm further details at this stage."

Jane Tranter, controller of fiction, last week said Doctor Who would take a year off in 2009 - except for three specials.