The BBC have announced today that Catherine Tate is to play Doctor Who's new companion, reprising her role from the 2006 Christmas special.

The comedian will return as Donna, the character she played in the 2006 'The Runaway Bride' Christmas special, for the full 13-week run of the new series.

Tate, who shot to fame after starring in the self-titled The Catherine Tate Show, will be taking over from Freema Agyeman, who played the Doctor's companion Martha Jones in the third series. Agyeman will return mid-series though. Press reports that Kylie Minogue will be star in this year's Christmas special have also been confirmed.

Catherine Tate said: "I am delighted to be returning to Doctor Who. I had a blast last Christmas and look forward to traveling again through time and space with that nice man from Gallifrey."

Russell T Davies, Doctor Who's executive producer, described Tate as an "absolute star". He added: "We are delighted that one of Britain's greatest talents has agreed to join us for the fourth series. Viewers can expect more ambitious storylines and a whole host of guest stars in 2008."

This news has not been met favourably by many fans - many of whom thought Tate's acting was below par in 'The Runaway Bride'. BSG member 'Rustle T Davis' has posted in our forums: "I thought she was dreadful in the Christmas special and so did everyone else I spoke to about it. This is a huge, huge mistake".