MUMBAI: BBC has announced that Piers Wenger is to take over the helm as executive producer for Doctor Who's fifth series and will become BBC Wales head of drama. Piers is to succeed Julie Gardner who leaves that role in January 2009.

In India, the show airs on BBC Entertainment, which is available on Tata Sky.

Piers, who was the producer of Housewife, 49 with Victoria Wood, says, "I'm incredibly excited to be associated with BBC Wales. The success of the drama team there has been extraordinary, and I look forward to taking the team to even greater heights. Working with Julie Gardner on Doctor Who over the next year will provide an invaluable insight into the secrets and success of the series. I couldn't have a more inspiring leader."

BBC Wales controller Menna Richards said, "I'm delighted Piers is joining the BBC Wales team, and I'm confident he can build on Julie's huge successes. Julie has helped transform drama production – not only at BBC Wales but across the BBC.

"She is an extraordinarily creative and dynamic leader. I am full of gratitude and admiration for her achievements at BBC Wales, which will of course continue over the coming months. We owe her a huge debt."

Gardner said, "I know that when I hand over my sonic screwdriver to Piers for season five of Doctor Who, it'll be to someone who loves and understands the show.

"Doctor Who is the most precious TV drama in the galaxy, and I'm leaving it in safe and brilliant hands. I've been on the trip of a lifetime in the last five years with the finest writers, actors and crew, and I've got another 18 months of time travel to enjoy."