Ainsley Harriott has been given lots of free cheese since signing up for ‘Strictly Come Dancing’.
The former ‘Ready Steady Cook’ host has confessed he’s struggling to ditch his extra weight ahead of the BBC One dance contest because people keep giving him free goodies.
Speaking at the launch of the new series, Ainsley said: "I am getting free cheese now that people know that I’m in it. The guy in the local cheese shop has never been so nice. He says, ‘Oh, you’ve got to try this one’."
While many of the celebrity contestants have been getting in shape for the show over the past few months, Ainsley has been busy filming a cookery show.
He continued: "How have I been keeping in shape? I haven’t! I filmed a ten-part food show this summer and put on a about a stone.
"We were going to three restaurants a day.
"It’s like visiting your auntie. You’re like, ‘Ooh I must try this!’ You can’t say no, you have got to have a spoonful."
However, the 58-year-old star – who was partnered with Australian beauty Natalie Lowe on the ‘Strictly’ pairing show – has been keeping on top of his regular exercise regime.
He shared: "I go dog walking and play tennis. And I have done Pilates for about eight years."
Nevertheless, Ainsley is already struggling with muscle pain.
He added: "I have already been to see the physio about my calf. The muscle got tight and he told me that prevention is better than a cure and so he gave me a few stretches."
‘Strictly Come Dancing’ returns to BBC One on Friday September 25.
Ainsley Harriott gifted free chesse by Strictly Come Dancing fans
