Outlander's Sam Heughan has topped a fan poll on who should be the next James Bond - but a Scottish spy is unlikely

Outlander actor Sam Heughan has come first in a poll of fans casting their opinion on who they’d like to see step into the iconic shoes of James Bond.

In the poll, conducted by Radio Times, the Scot came ahead of more established stars like Idris Elba and Tom Hardy.

Readers were asked to choose from a shortlist of 20 names. The top five featured Hardy in second place, followed by Superman actor Henry Cavill, then Elba, and Tom Hiddleston in fifth.

Radiotimes.com editorial director Tim Glanfield said: “Sam is clearly very popular with fans and this victory solidifies his position as one of the public favourites for this most coveted of film roles.

“With a host of incredible talent in the frame to take over from Daniel Craig, Sam certainly has some stiff competition.”

However, despite Heughan topping the poll, he is not expected to be announced as the next James Bond any time soon.