Actor Callow joins new Doctor Who

Callow will play Charles Dickens in the series

Actor Simon Callow is to appear in the BBC's revival of Dr Who as author Charles Dickens.

Callow, 55, joins Christopher Eccleston and Billie Piper in the series, which is already in production.

Eccleston plays the Time Lord, while former singer Piper features in the series as his assistant Rose Tyler.

Producer Russell T Davies said: "As soon as the words 'Charles Dickens' first appeared in the script, there was only one actor we wanted to approach."

"We're genuinely honoured that Simon has accepted, and I know that Chris and Billie are delighted too. This sets the standard for a Doctor Who with wonderful casts, exciting scripts and the highest production values," he added.

"It's wonderful to welcome an actor of Simon Callow's calibre on board the Tardis."

The series, made by BBC Wales, is due to be screened next year.