Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell lifted trophy in ‘highest-scoring final ever’, watched by more than 8 million

It has been a difficult year for Strictly Come Dancing. Just six months ago, questions were mounting about whether the show should be axed after a string of allegations of bullying during rehearsals, and there were fears controversy would hang over its 22nd season when it launched in September.

But as Chris McCausland lifted the glitterball trophy in Saturday night’s final, those fears appeared unfounded. Strong viewing figures and a overwhelmingly positive reaction to this year’s lineup suggest the show has regained its place at the heart of Saturday night family entertainment.