Kelly Brook: 'Alesha Dixon will be great'

Former Strictly Come Dancing star Kelly Brook has voiced her support for the show's new judge Alesha Dixon.

The model, who competed alongside Dixon on the fifth series in 2007, predicted that the popstar will be a hit with fans when she makes her debut on the programme next month.

Dixon, 30, was recently announced as a replacement for 66-year-old choreographer Arlene Phillips, who has been axed after six series. The decision has already sparked a public backlash, with allegations of ageism being directed at the BBC.

Reflecting on the row, Brook is quoted by OK as saying: "It must be so hard for Alesha but she'll be fine. I think she will be great.

"She's such an amazing dancer. I think she'll bring so much to the show. She looks amazing and has a great personality. It's a great thing for Strictly to have her."

Confirming that she also sympathises with Phillips, the star added: "It would have been nice to have them side by side."

Ex-contestant Gethin Jones also recently defended Dixon, admitting that he is looking forward to seeing her on the panel.