The People have reported today that the reason behind Jimmy Tarbucks sudden drop out from Strictly Come Dancing was that BBC bosses were afraid that he would collapse on air.

A source revealed: “Jimmy’s not very well and we don’t want him collapsing on live TV in front of millions of viewers. We decided not to let him take part.”

Jimmy was desperate to carry on dancing with partner Flavia Cacace.

He said: “I’m absolutely devastated. I really wanted to dance but I’ve been told I need to rest.” A spokesman for the show said: “It was a joint decision between the BBC, doctors and Jimmy that he should no longer take part.”

Yesterday the BBC refused to confirm rumours that a replacement dance couple would be brought in.

Their spokesman said: “There will be a twist – but you’ll have to wait and see.”