Doctor's new companion is an old friend

Comedian Catherine Tate has landed the role as Doctor Who's new companion, reprising her role from the 2006 Christmas special.

Catherine proved a hit with producers of the show in her role as blushing bride Donna who was transported to the Tardis as she got ready for her wedding.

Her return comes in place of Freema Agyeman whose character Martha Jones will crossover into the sci-fi programme's sister-show Torchwood before returning to the 13-week new series which will begin filming later this month.

Catherine said: "I am delighted to be returning to Doctor Who.

"I had a blast last Christmas and look forward to travelling again through time and space with that nice man from Gallifrey."

Executive producer and head Doctor Who writer Russell T Davies described Catherine as "an absolute star" for her previous performance on the show and added: "We are delighted that one of Britain's greatest talents has agreed to join us for the fourth series. Viewers can expect more ambitious storylines and a whole host of guest stars in 2008."

The fourth series of Doctor Who is planned to hit our screens in spring 2008 on BBC One, with a special starring David Tennant and Kylie Minogue lined up for Christmas Day.

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