Winners of ‘highest scoring final ever’, according to host Claudia Winkleman, claim sparkling glitterball prize

The flashing sequins, lurex and chiffon always put Christmas pantos in the shade, to say nothing of the glitterball prize. Yet in this, the 20th year of Strictly Come Dancing, it was the contestant who could see none of the bling who was to win in the end.

In what was officially “the highest scoring Strictly final ever”, according to the mistress of ceremonies, Claudia Winkleman, it was Chris McCausland, who lost his sight 25 years ago, who walked away the winner on Saturday night, accompanied by his professional dance partner, Dianne Buswell.