'DOING STRICTLY HAS BEEN WONDERFUL FOR ME'

Strictly star Debbie Mcgee is creating new Christmas traditions after losing her husband, TV magician Paul Daniels

Paul and I had always had a big Christmas. He spoiled me and bought me such lovely things. Last year was my first Christmas without him, so I did panto in York. I had Christmas day off and spent it with my family; we had a great time and it got me through the day.

Paul and I often just spent New Year on our own. I was dreading it last year, as it was the start of another year and he wasn’t there. But spending it with the panto cast at York Minster wasn’t sad for me.

This year, I’m planning to do panto again in York. I’ll decorate the dressing room with a tree and fairy lights everywhere. I will put cards up all over the walls.

A big tradition for Paul and I was our Christmas toy decorations. There are Alpine scenes with skiers, which plug in, and a gorgeous automaton of Santa’s workshop. They all come out every year. I will take them all to York with me. My car will be crammed with decorations! I’ll buy a Christmas present for my

Strictly partner Giovanni – but it depends on how well he’s behaved! He is used to women falling at his feet. The first two years he was on the show he told me he had very pretty girls and then he got me! It’s been amazing to be on Strictly. Everyone looks out for you and builds your confidence. It’s been wonderful.