PERFECTLY IN STEP 'STRICTLY COME DANCING PRO DANCERS TELL ALL AS THEY GET READY TO LIGHT UP THE FAMOUS BALLROOM

Dazzling dresses, a sprinkling of sequins and a sense of anticipation in the air can mean only one thing: a new series of Strictly Come Dancing is almost upon us, and the show’s professional dancers are revelling in being reunited for another year of fun.

- EMILY HORAN KIRA RICHARDS

“It’s my favourite time of year,” Dianne Buswell tells hello! as she, Jowita Przystal, Nancy Xu and Luba Mushtuk take a break from rehearsals to join us for an exclusive photoshoot celebrating the beginning of Strictly season.

“I count down the days until we start our rehearsals because it’s so much fun. This is my seventh year on the show and I can honestly say I get more excited each time,” adds the Australian dancer, 34, just as Jowita enters the room to show Dianne the beautiful white minidress she’s trying on for today’s shoot.

“I feel like Marilyn Monroe,” exclaims the Polish star, who turns 29 this week, giving a twirl.

Nancy, 32, shares her friends’ excitement for the series ahead – “I’m ready to go,” she declares – and Luba promises that viewers are in for a treat. “The group numbers are bigger and better than ever this year,” the 33-year-old reveals.

COUNTDOWN IS ON 

It’s fair to say that Strictly fever is in full swing, having taken hold earlier this month, when the 15 celebrity contestants were announced. Former Coronation Street actress Ellie Leach, veteran presenter Les Dennis and EastEnders actor Bobby Brazier, who is already the bookies’ favourite to win, are among the hopefuls competing for the coveted Glitterball trophy.