Paralympian is Strictly’s first disabled dancer

Jonnie Peacock, the two-time Paralympian, is to become the first disabled celebrity contestant to appear on Strictly Come Dancing.

The 24-year-old sprinter, who won gold at London 2012 and Rio 2016, will take a break from the track to appear on the new series that begins next month.

Debbie Mcgee, the widow of Paul Daniels, and Alexandra Burke, the X Factor winner, are also among the 15-strong line-up.

Peacock said: “The opportunity to be the first contestant with a disability to take part in Strictly’s main show was too good to turn down. I can’t wait to see what I can achieve.”