'Strictly's Austin inspired by late mum

Austin Healey has revealed that he will be inspired by his late mother when he performs on Strictly Come Dancing tonight.

The rugby union player explained that he will be dedicating his routine to mum Denise, who lost a battle against lung cancer a year ago today.

"Today is a big date for the family. I think my dad will be quite sad. I'm trying to be upbeat about it," Healey told The Mirror. "If my mum had been here she'd have loved all this. She'd have been on the front row every week proud as punch. And I know it's a cliché but I'm sure she's watching from somewhere.

"It's given me a lot of drive this week to go out and put on a great performance. My mum was a real fighter. She was the one who instilled the fight, spirit and competitiveness in me."

Healey has been partnered with professional dancer Erin Boag in the BBC ballroom series. The couple have not yet faced the dance-off after impressing the public and judges with their weekly performances.

Asked how they are getting on, Healey replied: "I heard that she was nicknamed Miss Whiplash. But she's the most easygoing person. If I get something wrong, the worst she'll do is pull out my toenails one by one with a pair of pliers."