Former Strictly Come Dancing star Mark Foster has backed new show judge Alesha Dixon.

He told The Mirror: “Alesha struggled to find her feet – and she got a slating. But just like the contestants, she is getting better and better.

“Last week she was saying a lot more. She brings a freshness and charisma to the judging panel.”

Foster also added that he doesn’t think idea to replace Arlene Phillips with Alesha was based on ageism.

Foster insisted: “It has nothing to do with ageism, but I think the show needed a shake-up. She’ll be great.”