Details of the BBC production of Merlin are emerging, with John Hurt cast as the voice of The Great Dragon.

BBC Wales' Head of Drama Julie Gardner said: "In this new version, Merlin and Arthur are young contemporaries for the first time ever, bringing a much loved tale to a whole new generation with a fresh, youthful new look and approach for Saturday nights." She added that "John Hurt plays Merlin's mythological mentor and the only dragon left with magic powers. It is an absolute privilege to be working with him."

Colin Morgan (pictured), who appeared as Jethro Cane in the recent Doctor Who story Midnight, plays Merlin, with Bradley James as Arthur. Santiago Cabrera, who played the visionary painter Isaac in Heroes, is Lancelot, while Richard Wilson and Anthony Head are Gaius and King Uther Pendragon. Former Bionic Woman Michelle Ryan will threaten the young friends as evil sorceress Nimueh.

The 13-part series is expected to air in the Doctor Who Saturday teatime slot this Autumn.