By Andrew Atkinson Exclusive
It’s a ’10 from Len’ to be amongst the glitter of the stars of BBC television show Strictly Come Dancing, who berthed at Cartagena port during the show’s tour on the cruiseliner Ventura.
“I really love cruises, as you are able to get face to face with the public, and hear what they think of Strictly Come Dancing,” said Slovenian born star dancer Aljaz.
Aljaz and his wife, dancing star Janette Manrara, tv personality Dr Ranj Singh, professional Latin American and Ballroom dancer Oti Mabuse, and married Strictly duo Katya and Neil Jones, were amongst celebrities from the show in Spain this month.
Former head judge Len Goodman’s phrase: “It’s a 10 from Len” – in scoring the dancers on Strictly Come Dancing – was echoed by passengers Brenda and Paul Pennicott, on board the Cruiseliner.
Brenda told me: “It’s nice to see different parts of the world. To be in Spain with members of Strictly Come Dancing is fantastic – and we really like Cartagena.
“The Strictly Come Dancing stars are great, and you could see that they are relaxing, away from the bright lights of TV.”
Brenda, from Chichester, said: “To get up close to the dancers is very good – brilliant – seeing them practise dancing too, before the shows.”
Dr Ranj Singh, clinician, specialising in childrens health, ITV This Morning celebrity, partnered Janette Manrara in Strictly Come Dancing in 2018.
“Dr Ranj is a very caring person – lovely – who told us he comes from a farming background, his parents being farmers. And that he had no indication of medicine as a child,” said Brenda.
Brenda, who also mixed with Strictly Come Dancing stars, dancer Anton De Bek and judge Craig Revel Horwood, on board the cruiseliner Brittania last year, said: “Anton De Bek was with his wife and their twins and gave questions and answers sessions with Craig.
“Craig Revel Horwood is just the same, as on the Strictly Come Dancing show. He quipped: ‘Now darlings, if you see me walking around – and want to buy me a drink – I only drink champagne!’ “.
Aljaz said: “Strictly Come Dancing has 11 million viewers – but obviously we don’t meet them all! It’s good to see and meet the people who watch the show.”
*COMING SOON – only in The Costa Blanca and Costa Calida Leader – “Peaky Blinders” Exclusive. Andrew Atkinson’s interview with a cast member of the Blockbuster TV series.
