June Whitfield confirmed for 'Who' special

June Whitfield will star in this year's Doctor Who Christmas special, it has been announced.

The official Doctor Who magazine confirms that Whitfield will feature in David Tennant's final two-part adventure at the end of the year.

The Absolutely Fabulous actress is lined up to play a character called Minnie Hooper.

"This is another classic piece of casting from Andy Pyor and his team," said producer Tracie Simpson. "June is practically television royalty!"

She continued: "The entire crew's been having so much fun filming with her, and her presence gives the whole story that extra sparkle, just in time for Christmas."

David Harewood, who is currently appearing in Robin Hood, will also guest-star in the special episodes.

"We've been trying to lure David on to Doctor Who for some time," Simpson revealed. "Now, and at last, the dates fitted!"

Russell T. Davies recently revealed that Bernard Cribbins will play the Doctor's companion in the Christmas special.