Allen favourite for 'Who' assistant

Lily Allen has emerged as the favourite to take on the role of The Doctor's assistant, reports The Telegraph.

The show's bosses are reportedly eager to hire a showbusiness name to act alongside Matt Smith, the relatively unknown actor recently revealed as the eleventh Doctor.

"Having got the casting of The Doctor out of the way, the companion role is where we will be looking next," said executive producer Piers Wenger.

"Someone terribly exciting like Billie Piper, who was at the beginning of her acting career but who had a profile for other reasons, would be great. We are looking for someone whose light can burn brightly.

"We would never cast anyone on the basis of their celebrity, but if Lily wanted to audition we would be delighted. It would be a lot of fun."

The singer was previously linked to the role in 2007, before it went to comedienne Catherine Tate.

Strictly Come Dancing stars Rachel Stevens and Kelly Brook are also reported to be in consideration for the part.