With this swing

Strictly puts X Factor star Shayne's wedding on hold

- LAURA ARMSTRONG

SHAYNE Ward is sweeping his Strictly partner off her feet but would like to be whisking his fiancée down the aisle.

Many celebs give blood, sweat and tears to succeed on Strictly Come Dancing. The former X Factor winner has also sacrificed tying the knot with actress Sophie Austin, 40.

Shayne, 39, has revealed their plans to marry this year were cancelled when he was picked for the Saturday show. But the bride-to-be, with whom he has kids Willow, eight, and Reign, two, fully supported extending their seven-year engagement by pushing back their wedding. Ex-Hollyoaks star Sophie actually volunteered him.

Shayne said: "We were looking at the end of this year, but we couldn't as this incredible show happened.

"I've joked maybe we could do both, and get married after the results show. But we have plenty of time.

EXPLOSIVE

"Sophie put me forward. For many years she's talked about Strictly, she loves, loves the show.

"Every year the music would come on and shed whisper, "You'd be good at this. I just think you'd really enjoy it, and I want people to see you.

"This year she said to me, 'Can I put your name forward?' and I said yeah because it felt like the right time.

"I'm so happy I said yes because it's one of the best things I've ever done."