'Holby' actress hails Rouass impact

Holby City star Rosie Marcel has claimed that the arrival of Laila Rouass has boosted morale on the set of the show.

Rouass was cast in the BBC medical drama late last year and her character Sahira Shah was seen for the first time last month.

On screen, Marcel's ruthless alter ego Jac Naylor has not taken kindly to Sahira's appointment at the hospital, viewing her as a big rival. However, speaking to Inside Soap, the actress explained that things are very different once the cameras stop rolling.

Marcel said: "Laila has brought some much-needed spirit to the show after we lost so many cast members in one go. The place felt barren for a while and then Laila came in with her brilliant sense of humour.

"We have a good laugh together and she's a very convincing doctor, too. I'm glad to have Laila as my friend."

In next week's episode, Jac continues to get fiercely competitive as she tries to ensure that she bags a consultancy post that Sahira is also hoping to secure.

"Professionally, Jac has always competed against men - but this time she's up against a woman who has it all," Marcel added. "Sahira has a husband, kids and is a brilliant surgeon. Jac won't let someone like that beat her."

> Click here to read our Holby City spoilers