Bradley Walsh 'thrilled' to be Doctor Who's new assistant as line-up revealed

Bradley Walsh has revealed how "thrilled" he is to be Doctor Who's new assistant - having been a fan of the show since childhood.

The presenter of The Chase was officially unveiled as Jodie Whittaker's companion on Sunday, along with a few more new characters.

“I remember watching William Hartnell as the first Doctor," the 57-year-old said, according to the BBC. 

“Black and white made it very scary for a youngster. I was petrified but even though I’d watch most of it from behind the sofa through my fingers, I became a fan.

"Am I thrilled to be part of this whole groundbreaking new dawn for the Doctor? Oh yes!”

Rumours of Walsh's role have been swirling for months, causing much debate among fans of the BBC show. 

The first female Time Lord will also be joined by Hollyoaks stars Tosin Cole and Mandip Gill as new characters Ryan and Yasmin. 

“The new Doctor is going to need new friends," head writer and executive producer Chris Chibnall said. 

Doctor Who companions through the ages, from Barbara Wright to Bill Potts

"We’re thrilled to welcome Mandip, Tosin and Bradley to the Doctor Who family. They’re three of Britain’s brightest talents and we can’t wait to see them dive into brand new adventures with Jodie’s Doctor."

The BBC said the upcoming series would have a 10-week run of 50-minute episodes in autumn 2018, starting off with a feature-length hour show.