Hollyoaks has announced the casting of Ashling O'Shea as new character Nadira, a love interest for Shaq (Omar Malik).

Described as "sharp, assertive, feisty and fun", Nadira is a childhood friend of Shaq who reconnects with him when he turns up at a singles event she's organised.

"Joining Hollyoaks has been such a surreal experience," said O'Shea, who has previously starred in Rebel Cheer Squad. "I've grown up watching the show, and their hard-hitting storylines, so it's a privilege as an actor to be able to be a part of that legacy.

"Everyone I've met so far have been so kind and supportive. At the moment, I'm spending the majority of my time annoying Omar! We clicked from the moment we met and I genuinely feel like I've known him for years which is such a bonus as Nadira really has known Shaq for years!

"Their relationship is one of my favourite parts about playing Nadira. She has a huge heart, a sarcastic mouth and a lot going on in her mind right now... I can't wait for people to get to know her."

O'Shea's first scenes will air during All 4's first play of Hollyoaks on Thursday, March 24.