Hit TV series Vampire Diaries has announced that it is to introduce its first ever gay character.

Now in its fifth season, the series has cast Soul Surfer star Chris Brochu as gay character Luke.

The character is described as a “fun and charming student at Whitmore college who bonds with Elena and Caroline.”

E! online also notes that the character has a “secret agenda”.

Luke will be introduced in episode 16 of the season.