Doctor Who poised for radio panto

Tennant admits to being nervous about playing Buttons

Doctor Who star David Tennant has been lined up to play Buttons in a pantomime special for Virgin Radio.

He will be joined by Hollywood actress Thandie Newton as Cinderella and Brian Blessed, who will play the town crier.

Tennant admits he is nervous about the role: "It's daunting. I'm not going to lie to you, I feel I've got a mountain to climb," he said.

The show, which also stars breakfast DJ Christian O'Connell as Prince Charming, takes place next Thursday.

"We have already had e-mails from Doctor Who fans as far away as Belgrade, Melbourne and China who will all be listening to the panto live online as it happens," O'Connell said.

Bafta-winner Newton agreed to take part after chatting to O'Connell earlier this year.