I Get Butterflies Before The Show!

After almost two decades at the helm, Tess Daly reveals that she still feels the Strictly Come Dancing magic

- SUE CRAWFORD 

While a new series of Strictly Come Dancing sees millions of viewers settling down in front of the television with their favourite drink and snacks to assess the latest contestants, the opening bars of the famous theme tune take on a slightly different meaning for presenter Tess Daly.

Warm and friendly, Tess has hosted the show with consummate ease for the past 19 years, but her relaxed demeanour belies the fact that it's a job she takes extremely seriously and prepares for with militarystyle precision.

"A new series is a chance for me to get myself newseason ready; a bit like a personal MOT if you like!" she recently explained.

"This means I will work a little harder on my fitness in preparation for the 15-hour studio days, upping my gym sessions from two to three per week, while continuing with daily yoga practice.

"I might also do an extra evening stretch class before bed as it helps relax my mind as well as my body, and induces a better quality of sleep. Sleep is vital when every waking hour counts. We all look and feel a whole lot better for it."

Even at the studio, Tess's preparation is just as thorough.

"The essentials I have for filming include a moisture mask that I'll leave on for 10 minutes before make-up and a massaging foot roller, which helps prep my feet ready for a day in heels," she says.

"I also bring along throat pastilles to help keep the vocal cords lubricated and eye drops to help keep my eyes feeling soothed and refreshed under the camera lights."