Each of the six couples will perform a Christmas-inspired routine with the hope of impressing the judges, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke, Head Judge Shirley Ballas, and the voting audience. But who will lift the coveted Strictly Come Dancing Christmas trophy?

Jay Blades is the first celebrity contestant confirmed for the Christmas special, produced by BBC Studios. Jay will be paired with Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer, Luba Mushtuk.

Jay Blades MBE is a modern furniture restorer and presenter. He is best known for presenting The Repair Shop, Jay’s Yorkshire Workshop, Money For Nothing and Jay Blades’ Home Fix. In addition to his television work Jay spends time running workshops and motivating disadvantaged people in the community.

Jay Blades says: “I’m super excited, times two! One, because I’m going to learn a new dance apart from the ‘Dad’ dance, and two because I’m going to be on Strictly! It’s a show that I’ve always admired, and I can’t wait to see how I perform!”