LAST WALTZ FOR VETERAN

FROM PAGE ONE: loves being part of Strictly, but he’s been thinking about moving on for a while now.

“Earlier this year he had a chat with the show’s executive producers and explained how he was feeling.”

We can reveal Anton told bosses he wants to leave Strictly “on a high”.

In recent years he has suffered a string of bad results while paired with less able partners including Judy Murray, Ruth Langsford and Lesley Joseph.

It is thought his success with soap actress Emma Barton on this year’s series could be behind his decision to finally call it a day.

Our source added: “Anton doesn’t want to be remembered for those poor scores. He’s told producers he wanted to wait until he had a strong year before bowing out. “With Emma he’s had just that, so they won’t be surprised if he decides to go.” Strictly’s pro dancers sign year-long contracts, meaning Anton has not yet agreed to do next year’s series.

The dad of two is expected to make a decision on his future within weeks. Producers are said to be “fully supportive” of whatever he chooses to do. Anton has been on Strictly since it was first shown in 2004.

He remains the only professional to appear on every series. His mammoth run on primetime has turned him into one of television’s biggest names.

When Anton finally leaves the show that made him a familiar face he will be able to cash in with other major projects.

In the past, he has earned big money as a host on shows including Hole In The Wall.

Two years ago he secured a lucrative record deal to release an album of music.

An industry source last night tipped Anton to become one of the biggest earners in showbiz when he leaves Strictly.

They said: “Being part of Strictly is a big commitment and it takes up six months of the year.

“Without that, Anton will be freed up. He’ll be able to agree to far more projects than he has been.”