Anton: 'Dixon brings frisson to Strictly'

Anton Du Beke has argued that Alesha Dixon will bring a "new frisson" to Strictly Come Dancing.

The professional dancer, who will partner actress Laila Rouass on this year's show, claimed that the popstar will create a new challenge for everyone working on the reality series.

"I am excited about the new format. I think Alesha will add a new frisson to the show and I’m interested in what she has to say," he told DS.

"I think she'll be a great asset to the panel and I think she'll give the dancers and other judges something to think about."

Speaking about departing judge Arlene Phillips, he said: "I am going to miss Arlene, but she is still going to be around. Apparently she may be choreographing one of our routines, which will be good because I've never worked with Arlene like that - I'm looking forward to it."

Du Beke, whose former celebrity partners have included Lesley Garrett, Esther Rantzen, Jan Ravens and Kate Garraway, said that he was "thrilled" to have a younger dancer this year.

"I had a double-look. I thought, 'No, my partner's going to be brought out in a minute'," he said. "Then they said, 'No, this really is her'. Then I wanted to touch her and stroke her."

He joked: "At last I have a contestant who doesn't have a bus pass!"

Strictly returns to BBC One on Friday, September 18.