'Strictly' stars prepare for UK tour

The stars of 'Strictly Come Dancing' are returning for a live tour of the United Kingdom.

This year’s king of the dancefloor, Tom Chambers, will take to the stage for the six-week tour, alongside second-placed Rachel Stevens and model Jodie Kidd.

Past favourites Gethin Jones, Jill Halfpenny, Julian Clary and Kenny Logan are also due to appear in the live version of the popular Saturday night show.

The format will be similar to the televised version, with the dancers strutting their stuff before a panel of four judges.

Len Goodman, Arlene Phillips, Craig Revel Horwood and Bruno Tonioli will scrutinise the celebrities’ footsteps as they dance their way across the country.

Tonioli, who missed the 2008 tour, said he was “so excited” to be taking part this year.

“I really missed out last year,” he said. “The tour was a huge success, and this year it is going to be even better – skilful routines and beautiful costumes brought together by fantastic live music. It is going to be great.”

The 45-date tour begins at Newcastle Metro Arena on Friday January 15, and will show in venues in Liverpool, Manchester, Nottingham, Sheffield, London, Glasgow and Birmingham.

Ex-S Club 7 singer Stevens, who is partnered by Vincent Simone, said the tour was a “really, really exciting” prospect.

“It is going to be really nerve-wracking, but it is going to be brilliant,” she said.

“I think the atmosphere is just amazing, it is going to be incredible.”

Stevens added that she had not been surprised by the success of the show.

“I can see why people love it so much,” she said.

“Dancing is something that everybody really likes to do, and it brings people together.

“Seeing people who have never danced before inspires people. They think: 'Oh, I can do that'.

“Being on the show has just been the most brilliant experience.”