Suranne Jones cast in Doctor Who

The BBC have announced that Suranne Jones has been cast in the next series of Doctor Who. The actress, whose previous credits include Coronation Street and The Sarah Jane Adventures, will be playing a young woman called Idris in an episode penned by Neil Gaiman.

Of the casting, Gaiman commented: "Suranne is marvellous. She's beautiful, funny and strange. It's the kind of role that people will remember forever, so we needed someone who was able to pull that off, and to keep up with Matt Smith. And bite him. Suranne does all three."

Suranne Jones added: "As an actor, it's hugely exciting to be cast in Doctor Who. I'm a massive fan of the show and I was blown away when I read Neil's script and uncovered what's in store for my character".

"However, I'm sworn to secrecy so viewers will just have to wait until next year to find out any other juicy details!"

Filming on the episode, which is directed by Richard Clark, will begin tomorrow. The sixth series will be broadcast on BBC One in Spring 2011.

Jones is also set to appear alongside ex-Doctor Who actor David Tennant in a four-part BBC One drama called 'Single Father' next month.

(Source: BBC - Doctor Who)