Blackpool stole the spotlight on Saturday night as it emerged as the most watched episode of this series’ Strictly Come Dancing.

A staggering six out of 10 TV viewers in the North West tuned in live, contributing to the show's highest overnight ratings across all audiences.

Strictly is usually held in the Elstree studios in Hertfordshire, but for one week each year the show moves up north to the Tower Ballroom in Blackpool.

Strictly first came to Blackpool in 2004, for the third episode of the first series. A year later in 2005 the final was held at the Tower Ballroom.

Blackpool week has captivated both viewers and contestants alike since 2009, when Children In Need temporarily took over the Strictly studio at the old BBC Television Centre every November.

This year's festivities commenced with a dazzling performance by judges and professionals, a dance celebrating the essence of "all things Blackpool."

It isn’t long until the Glitterball Trophy is awarded to the Strictly winner for 2023 and there are six couples now left in the competition.

Former Blackburn schoolboy and channel 4 presenter and journalist Krishnan Guru Murthy and his dance partner Lauren Oakley left the competition in week eight.

Broadcaster Angela Rippon, 79, got the boot during Blackpool week, losing out to soap star Bobby Brazier following the dance-off.

The final will take place on Saturday, December 16 and will be shown live on BBC.