Eddie Izzard has been named as the next Dr Who - by former Time Lord Tom Baker.

The 69-year-old actor said the "mysterious and strange" comic will take the part when the show regenerates in 2005.

However the BBC says no casting decisions have yet been made, and dismissed Baker's comments as speculation.

In an interview with Radio Five Live's Julian Worricker, Baker said: "Eddie Izzard is so mysterious and strange. He seems like he has lots of secrets.

"You always feel Eddie Izzard knows something you don't, or has been somewhere you haven't."

He added: "I like the way he dresses. He could probably do his own wardrobe. "

The new series is being written by Queer As Folk creator Russell T Davies, with Alan Davies and Richard E Grant also among those tipped to step into the Tardis.