I’malotmore nervousabout dancingthan playingfootball. Icandothatwith myeyesclosed ...infactsome peoplesayIdid!
Player with a reputation for hard tackles reveals why he can’t wait to get his tux on
podcast Flintoff, Savage and the Ping Pong Guy (Matthew Syed) about his guilt at visiting Colin and thinking “What’s the point?” because his dad didn’t know who he was. He adds that recent publicity about the link between heading in football and dementia, including Alan Shearer’s investigation into the issue, is a step towards raising awareness. Earlier this year the press revealed at least 375 players have dementia or memory problems. Robbie says: “Because of what happened to my dad, my mental health is important. That’s why I am so open. The more we talk about it, the better.” Dancing seven hours a day in preparation for the new show was, of course, great physical and mental exercise. And he got to meet the judges again – including Craig Revel Horwood. He says. “I was most looking forward to seeing Craig because he hammered me so much. But it was an amazing experience. I’ve since had the chance to do other shows and turned lots of them down. “But for me, Strictly is special.” Strictly Christmas Special, Xmas Day, 6.30pm, BBC1. l Katie Derham The BBC presenter finished fourth with Anton Du Beke in the 13th series in 2015. This year, Katie is partnered with Brendan Cole. She says: “I cannot wait to dust off the sequins.” The tennis coach and mum to Wimbledon winner Andy appeared in the 12th series, getting to week eight. This year she dances with Neil Jones. Judy, 58, says: “I promise to be every bit as bad and to enjoy it every bit as much.” The Girls Aloud singer was one of two runners-up in the 10th series. Kimberley, who has had two boys since her first appearance in 2012, is once again paired with Pasha Kovalev, saying: “I loved my time on Strictly so much so it’s going to be wonderful to be back.” The Olympic medallist came second in the 2005 series, losing out to cricketer Darren Gough. He’s no stranger to the Christmas Special, after winning it a year later. Partnered with Amy Dowden, Colin, 50, says: “I’m looking forward to dusting off my dancing shoes again.” The Radio 2 star appeared alongside Katie in the 13th series, finishing ninth. The 52-year-old, dancing with Karen Clifton again, jokes: “Me? Dance again? Yes, yes, YES!!! Now where are those shoes?”