Exclusive: Anton Du Beke shares "joyful" memories of Strictly training with Ann Widdecombe

Strictly Come Dancing’s Anton Du Beke will always be remembered for his iconic partnership with the late Ann Widdecombe on the dance show during the 2010 series.

Against all the odds, Widdecombe made it past Blackpool week all the way to the quarter finals, and the couple even reunited on the show for the 2018 Christmas special.

When Du Beke spoke to Digital Spy at Good Housekeeping Live this week, he told us about his memories of training with Widdecombe, saying: "We trained in Devon always in a lovely dance studio down there. We used to have lunch in the apothecary in Newton Abbot.

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The Strictly judge added: "She was a joy. She was fun, clever and funny. I treasure the moments we spent together. We remained friends for many years. I thought she was a wonderful lady."

Ann Widdecombe was found dead at her home on 9 July this year aged 78, with Devon and Cornwall Police launching a murder investigation after the politician had been found with "serious injuries".

A 28-year-old man has been charged with murder in connection with her death and a trial date has been set for 2027.

Back in 2010, Widdecombe spoke about her partnership with Du Beke, saying: "I've got a sense of humour and he's got a sense of humour. It was pairing genius on the part of the BBC."

This year’s Strictly has been one of the show’s closest competitions yet, with seven different couples topping the leaderboard.

Du Beke told Digital Spy: "We’ve had lots of different people in the dance-off this year. There’s no sort of standout favourite at the moment – we’ll get a clearer steer after Blackpool in the run-up to the final."

Next year, Strictly will celebrate its 25th anniversary, with Du Beke and Craig Revel Horwood having both appeared on the show since its inception.

"I think we should do a real extravaganza of a show," Du Beke said. "We should bring back some old favourites."

Strictly Come Dancing continues this Saturday on BBC One.

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