Matthew Wolfenden performed for the first time on Dancing On Ice this evening, along with his new partner for the series Nina Ulanova.

The Emmerdale star recently admitted that he was hugely nervous but also excited about tonight’s show and as he used to be a competitive gymnast – before a back injury necessitated he give up the sport – he was looking forward to competing against others once more and is desperate to reach the final.

In the pre-performance VT we saw immediately that Matthew had amazing potential on the ice, though he was incredibly hard on himself throughout the rehearsals.

This evening the pair skated to ‘Give Me Everything’ by Ne-Yo and Pitbull and from the start we knew the routine was going to be astounding. It showed skill that we wouldn’t expect ti see for at least another four weeks and Matthew literally did not stop throughout. There was spins, lifts, jumps and amazing energy…it was great!

JUDGES COMMENTS:

LOUIE SPENCE: My points are solely for the leather and studs! It was an explosive performance….it was almost perfect! Once the music built you also built, it was so exciting to watch…it was so hot!

ROBIN COUSINS: It was fantastic end to the night….this is going to be a fantastic series and I can’t wait!

KATARINA WITT: I gave you a seven for the right reasons. For your skating skills and not for how hot you guys are, how sexy you are, how great your body movement is or how great you look. One thing, get rid of the leather and gets into jeans and a white shirt, you’ll be even hotter.

SCORE 20.5