Olivier award-winner Lara Pulver is in the running to be named as the first female Doctor Who.

Ms Pulver, whose mother converted to Judaism, is at 10-1 with Betfair to become the BBC sci-fi show’s new star.

Peter Capaldi has already announced he will make his last appearance as the Time Lord in this year’s Christmas special.

Doctor Who’s outgoing executive producer, Steven Moffat, had previously suggested a future contender for the role could be a woman.

He said: “I think the next time might be a female Doctor. I don’t see why not.”

Ms Pulver, 36, was named best actress in a supporting role for her work in Gypsy, last year.