I'll cherish my friendship with Vito for the rest of my life'

Last year's Strictly winner Ellie Leach tells OK! about life on tour in Cluedo 2 and reuniting with her dance partner

- MITYA UNDERWOOD AND ANNA POINTER

Since she lifted the Glitterball Trophy last December with her professional partner — and now lifelong friend — Vito Coppola, Ellie Leach has returned to acting for a nationwide tour of Cluedo 2. In what is her stage debut after winning the hearts of the nation so triumphantly on Strictly, the former soap star takes on the role of Miss Scarlett in the hilarious murder mystery, which is based on the classic board game and set in the swinging 60s.

As the bodies pile up, a cast of colourful characters, including Casualty’s Jason Durr as Colonel Mustard, move from room to room, trying to escape the murderer and survive the night. And Ellie – known to millions as Faye Windass in Coronation Street – says of the whodunnit, “What can I say – bringing the iconic character of Miss Scarlett to life on stage is so much fun – as is seeing audience members from literally eight to 80 out there, having a really good time.”

It’s a major step away from the famous cobbles, and Ellie thanks her Strictly pal Vito for giving her the confidence to make her big debut treading the boards. “It’s out of my comfort zone, but I’ve been enjoying it,” she smiles. The actress is now 23, but was on Corrie for 13 years since she was nine years old. “Then I went straight into Strictly after that, so this is different to what I’m used to.”

Although Ellie has been on the road with the hit show since January, it was recently extended until November, which she’s delighted about – but it’s also a lengthy stint to be away from your loved ones. “It’s a long time to be away from home. I’m not going to say I’ve found it easy, I haven’t – because I’m a homebird. I live with my family and love being home, so it’s something I’ve struggled with.