Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood has admitted that he is ready to face Tory MP Ann Widdecombe on the show.

Horwood fully expects Widdecombe to give the panel a ‘run for their money’ if they criticise her performances but he also thinks the public will enjoy seeing her ‘soft and glamorous’ side on the BBC dance extravaganza.

He said in a statement: “Politicians do tend to have the gift of the gab and I think people will get to see the soft and glamorous side to her when she comes on Strictly.

“She will certainly give us all a run for our money in the talkbacks!”

Horwood went on to deny that he is “Mr Nasty” claiming that it would be “dull” if all the judges tried to appease the contestants.

He said: “It is important to tell the celebrities what is wrong with their dancing and how they can improve.”