Doctor Who Series 12 Episode 2 is set to tell the story of Noor Inayat Khan, a World War II heroine who was posthumously awarded the George Cross, the highest civilian decoration in the UK. She’ll be played by Aurora Marion.

The Belgian actress, who has starred in A Wedding (2016) and the upcoming Echoes of the Past, revealed her costume on her Instagram page, with a tag that confirmed her role in the series.

Khan trained as a wireless operator in the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force; she then went on to serve in the Special Operations Executive organisation, and was sent to aid the French Resistance. Also known as Nora Baker, she’s Britain’s first Muslim war heroine, so we hope this real-life tale will inspire companion, Yaz Khan (Mandip Gill).

Noor Inayat Khan was considered “highly dangerous” by the Nazis after she was captured and, following two escape attempts, was executed at the Dachau concentration camp in September 1944. A plaque in her honour can be found at the Dachau Memorial Hall. Her George Cross citation concluded:

“Assistant Section Officer INAYAT-KHAN displayed the most conspicuous courage, both moral and physical over a period of more than 12 months.”

From Marion’s Instagram post, it seems likely the episode will include her death.

It’s certainly a very courageous and inspiring story to tell – and one few will know.

Doctor Who Series 12 will air in early 2020.