Amanda Burton cast in 'Waterloo Road'

Amanda Burton has joined the cast of Waterloo Road in a leading role, the BBC has confirmed.

The 53-year-old, who previously starred in Silent Witness, begins filming next month for her role as head teacher Karen Fisher.

"I'm very excited to join Waterloo Road which is such a well-known and well-loved series," Burton said. "I can't wait to get started on the programme and am very much looking forward to my first day on set with the cast and crew."

The BBC's Anne Mensah added: "Amanda is an actress of exceptional quality and enormous popularity with the audience. We are absolutely delighted to be welcoming her to Waterloo Road.

"We have a fantastic cast and brilliant new stories to tell as the programme continues to go from strength to strength."

Other newcomers joining the show include Strictly Come Dancing champion Tom Chambers and Sally Whittaker's daughter Phoebe Dynevor.