The BBC reported:

Classical singer Russell Watson, who had a brain tumour removed this year, is to defend his title on the celebrity duets contest Just the Two of Us.

He will be one of nine professionals who are paired with famous faces when the BBC TV series returns on 2 January.

Ex-Blue Peter presenter Janet Ellis, cricketer Mark Butcher and actress Hannah Waterman are also taking part.

Sarah Brightman, Tony Christie, Wet Wet Wet’s Marti Pellow and Carol Decker of T’Pau are among those joining Watson.

The programme – presented by husband-and-wife team Vernon Kay and Tess Daly – will run for six nights.

THE NINE CELEBRITIES
Luke Bailey (Casualty)
John Bardon (EastEnders)
John Bardon (Hollyoaks)
Julia Bradbury (Watchdog)
Mark Butcher (cricketer)
Brendan Cole (Strictly Come Dancing)
Janet Ellis (ex-Blue Peter)
Gregg Wallace (Masterchef)
Hannah Waterman (ex-EastEnders)

Each duo will be judged by a panel of industry experts before viewers vote for their favourites.

The winner will be announced in the grand final on 7 January.