by Clare Hutchinson, Western Mail

Nixon, who lives in Pontypridd – just minutes from the BBC Wales studio where the programme is filmed – was last night thrilled at being linked with the much-loved programme.

She said: “Well, the studios where they film Doctor Who are right next to where I live at home in Pontypridd, so it would be very handy.

“It would be lovely to be filming and be able to sleep in my own bed. Being in an action role would also be great – I’ve never done anything like that before.

“If I had the chance to audition for the role and got it I don’t think I’d believe it. I’d love to film something in Wales. The new Doctor is so much younger I think he might need a young companion.”

Nixon recently appeared on the movie screen in Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging and will shortly appear in Cherrybomb opposite Harry Potter actor Rupert Grint, who plays Harry’s friend Ron Weasley in the film franchise.