Former ParalympicsGB swimmer Ellie Simmonds has been named as the sixth star taking part in this year's series of Strictly Come Dancing.
The 27-year-old, who won five gold medals across three Olympic Games, joins a lineup that also includes Kym Marsh, Will Mellor, Kaye Adams, Richie Anderson and Jayde Adams.
Speaking about her participation, Simmonds said: "Oh my gosh, I'm literally bursting with excitement! It's been so hard keeping this secret as I've wanted to tell everyone. I'm going on Strictly Come Dancing!
"I'm a tad nervous too, well more than a tad... I'm absolutely petrified! To be asked to be part of the Strictly family is just so exciting and I cannot wait, it's going to so much fun.
"I'm counting down the minutes until it starts; learning to dance, meeting my partner and everyone else involved in the show. Plus wearing the sequins and all that, It's going to be a blast.
"I've been watching Strictly from as far back as I can remember; it's a traditional lead up to Christmas with my family and it's a genuine privilege to be part of it."
The remaining celebrities in the lineup will be announced over the coming days ahead of the show starting next month.
Neil Wilkes
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