Matt Smith has turned to his previous co-star Billie Piper for advice on how to play the Doctor, The Daily Star Sunday reports.

Smith, who will become the Eleventh incarnation of the Time Lord when David Tennant leaves the show later this year, is said to be ‘panicked’ at the thought of taking on such an iconic role.

Piper, who played the Doctor’s companion, Rose Tyler, in Series 1, 2 and 4, has told the newspaper that she’s more than happy to help out her old friend.

“He called me and said ‘What am I going to do?’” she said.

But the actress has told him that he doesn’t need any acting advice, so instead she’s sharing some tips on how to manage the publicity demands that come with the show.

“Your life completely changes as it’s such a huge show, just about the biggest show on TV,” she continued. “I had no idea what I was getting into. It’s frightening being in that kind of production and having people suddenly know everything about you. He’s just about to embark on that.”

She added: “But I’m a big fan of Matt. He’s a stirring actor and has the right energy for the part of the Doctor. The role is in good hands.”

Filming for the fifth series of Doctor Who will begin in Cardiff this July.