Doctor Who: Pearl Mackie named as new companion

The stage actress will joing the hit TV show for its tenth series

Pearlie Mack says she is 'incredibly excited ' to be joining Dr Who on his adventures (BBC)

London born actress Pearl Mackie will play the new assistant of Dr Who in the hit BBC TV series.

She will replace The Doctor’s last assistant, Clara Oswald, who was played by Jenna Colman, but left the show in 2015.

Ms Mackie is currently working on stage in the West End production of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time.

The Old Vic trained actress will join the show to play ‘Bill’ as the programme goes into its tenth series, due to be broadcast in 2016.

“I'm incredibly excited to be joining the Doctor Who family,” Ms Mackie said.

"It's such an extraordinary British institution, I couldn't be prouder to call the TARDIS my home! Peter Capaldi is such a brilliant actor, and his Doctor is such a wacky and wonderful character, I can't wait to see what adventures are in store for him and Bill throughout time and space.

“Reading the script at the audition I thought Bill was wicked. She’s cool, strong, sharp, a little bit vulnerable with a bit of geekiness thrown in.

“I can't wait to bring her to life, and to see how she develops through the series.

“I always loved stage combat at drama school so I can't wait to get on set and kick some evil monsters into the next dimension!

“Shooting the trailer was absolutely mental, there were pyrotechnics and smoke and I met my first Dalek! I'm not sure it will ever become ‘the norm’ seeing crazy monsters on set, but I cannot wait to meet some more!

“The weirder the better, bring it on!”

Fans have reacted gleefully to the announcement:

Peter Capaldi, who plays the incumbent Doctor, said: "It is a genuine delight to welcome Pearl Mackie to Doctor Who.

"A fine, fine actress with a wonderful zest and charm, she's a refreshing addition to the Tardis and will bring a universe of exciting new possibilities to The Doctor's adventures."