A Preston actress has landed a role in Doctor Who.

Mandip Gill, who graduated from the University of Central Lancashire in 2009, is one of the new companions for the Doctor.

Advertisements

She will play the character Yasmin in the 11th series of the BBC sci-fi show.

Mandip studied acting at the Preston-based university and has gone on to perform in theatre shows and as Phoebe McQueen in Hollyoaks.

She said: “I thoroughly enjoyed my time training on at the University of Central Lancashire. The BA (Hons) Acting course was informative, exciting and challenging; setting me up perfectly for the industry.

“The lecturers were supportive throughout my training and even helped me kick-start my career by introducing me to agents and industry professionals. Thanks to my training I have been able to work in the business for some years.”

Read more: Here’s what Prince Harry was up to in Preston

Mandip’s current roles include playing a junior registrar in upcoming BBC One drama Love, Lies and Records.

Senior lecturer in acting Terence Chapman said: “Mandip was a brilliant student. Really hard working, bright, positive and always very respectful. It was clear in her acting for screen classes that she had real potential so it’s no surprise to see she has done so well in TV. Hollyoaks, Doctors, Good Karma Hospital and now Dr Who.

“There has been so much in the press in recent years about the lack of diversity in the industry and in actor training. For 12 years now we have been trying to address that issue. As a young British-Asian woman from a working class background, Mandip is a great ambassador for what we are trying to achieve here at UCLan.”

Read more: How Preston astronomer is helping the students of today

Mandip is joined in the Tardis by presenter and actor Bradley Walsh, Toisin Cole and the new Doctor played by Jodie Whittaker.