Widdecombe to take to the Strictly floor
By Philippa Silverman - 8th September 2010
The news we've all been waiting for has finally arrived: It has been confirmed that Ann Widdecombe will compete in the new series of Strictly Come Dancing.
The announcement follows months of speculation since the Daily Mail reported the story in June, when the Tory diehard turned down the role of UK ambassador to the Vatican due to a detached retina.
Fortunately this has not stopped her from taking to the dancefloor.
Ann, 62, had previously turned down the programme maker's offer last year while she was a Member of Parliament.
The former Maidstone and the Weald MP's rivals will include soap and sports stars. However she won't be the oldest – TV magician Paul Daniels has 10 years on her.
Other political types that have appeared in reality shows include George Galloway on Celebrity Big Brother and Brian Paddick who appears on I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!.
The eighth series of Strictly Come Dancing launches this weekend.
Dods Parliamentary Communications Ltd