Ore Oduba has been crowned the winner of ‘Strictly Come Dancing’.
The 30-year-old BBC sports presenter has beaten stiff competition from television personality Louise Redknapp and ‘Hollyoaks’ star Danny Mac to be named the winner of the Latin and ballroom dance competition.
And whilst the star – who has been known throughout the series for crying after his performances – was left in tears as he lifted the glitterball trophy with his professional dance partner Joanne Clifton, and thanked her for being his "best friend".
He said: "I love you (Joanne) with all my heart. I’m so speechless. I just want to say thank you for everything you have given me. You have been the most incredible person.
"This has been the most incredible experience of my life. I’ve learnt to dance, I’ve made a best friend, I’ve been on the show that I’ve loved for 12 years. "
Ore – who scored two perfect 40s on the final show with a repeat of his impressive jive and for his show dance which saw him perform a mixture of his favourites from throughout the series – also took the time to thank the people behind the scenes who make the show possible.
He added: "Every single one of you. The guys in wardrobe, I know you’re watching. Happy Birthday Francis. Hair, props, judges, Len (Goodman, the head judge), Tess (Daly) Claudia (Winkleman, the show’s presenters), this is for you."
Meanwhile Joanne, 33, was left speechless as she was crowned the show’s professional winner for the first time since she joined the programme in 2014.
She said: "I can’t believe it. Thank you for working so hard. You’ve become a dancer!"
Saturday’s (17.12.16) final also marked the last show to feature head judge Len Goodman, 72, as he is set to retire now that the series is over.
Ore Oduba wins Strictly Come Dancing
