Shirley Ballas backs ‘brilliant’ Strictly host Josh Widdicombe

Along with its star-studded new line-up of celebrities, the BBC dance series returned to screens last month with a new presenting team made up of Widdicombe, broadcaster Emma Willis and former Strictly professional Johannes Radebe.Ballas, 66, said the new presenting team have made the long-running series feel “fresh”, and backed Widdicombe – whose presenting style has sparked mixed reactions among fans and critics.Speaking on the red carpet for the Pride Of Britain award ceremony, Ballas told the Press Association: “I have a changing room just down from Josh. He is humorous.“He is kind and I think he’s brilliant at his job.”The trio stepped into the role after Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly announced their departure from the show after fronting it for more than a decade together.Josh Widdicombe (Doug Peters/PA)PA WireBallas said: “It’s mixed up but it feels great. It feels fresh.“Still one of those bigger shows where people tune into for all the family. So it’s great.”Speaking about the series, Ballas added: “I’ve had the best time with the new presenters, and the cast is such an even playing field.“Everybody’s getting into the groove now.”Josh Widdicombe, Emma Willis and Johannes Radebe (Guy Levy/BBC/PA)PA MediaBallas is joined on the judging panel by Oti Mabuse, Craig Revel Horwood and Anton Du Beke.The series has entered its fifth week and features a line-up including reality TV star Dani Dyer, singer Delta Goodrem, sports pundit Shaun Wright-Phillips, and broadcaster Will Best.