Doctor Who will travel back to the time of the Roman Empire in the new series of the BBC hit Sci-fi show.

The Doctor, played by David Tennant, and his new assistant Donna, played by Catherine Tate, will travel to Pompeii on the night before Mount Vesuvius erupts. They will take on the mammoth task of saving all the towns residents.

Doctor Who executive producer and head writer Russell T Davies said: “Arriving in Pompeii marks the start of another exciting adventure for The Doctor and Donna.

“Donna is stunned to find herself in the midst of history’s most famous volcanic eruption.

“Viewers can expect many more ambitious storylines and a whole host of guest stars in 2008.”