DOCTOR Who returns to our screens next month, and Gwent is set to play a major role in him saving the planet.

New Doctor David Tennant and companion Billie Piper are to battle Cybermen at Newport's Riverfront theatre, meet an old enemy in Tredegar House, and come across some old friends at Duffryn High School.

And among the monsters, ghosts and aliens the intrepid intergalactic travellers are set to come across a group of fearsome high-kicking Shaolin monks, played by a group of Gwent kickboxers.

The BBC Wales production returns for a second series in April, and the Argus was given a sneak preview of the action-packed first episode. Without giving too much away, it takes place on an Earth colony in the far future, filmed on location in Rhossili Bay, Gower.

The Doctor and companion Rose unearth some dodgy goings-on at a hospital run by cat nuns, and come across a familiar face lurking in the basement, which was filmed in the cellars of Newport's Tredegar House. They also share a kiss, albeit with a sci-fi twist.

Later in the series they come across robot dog K9, the popular pal from the Tom Baker years, at Duffryn High School.

Billie Piper, who plays Rose, said she had enjoyed filming in Gwent. "We have had a great time here. I feel I'm getting to know Newport really well. The Welsh people are so friendly."

David Tennant added: "When you film in London sometimes you feel like you're in the way. Everyone in Wales always seems so pleased to see us."

The pair said one of the highlights of the series was filming with comedian Peter Kay, who plays a baddie at the end of the series. Billie said: "It was hard to work with him because he is so funny and you can't stop laughing."

David added: "The more takes he could destroy with laughter the better. He is one of the funniest men I have ever met."

The series is still being filmed, with the cast wrapping up one episode at a Newport studio this week.

A third series is already confirmed.