Ellie Leach, the youngest winner of Strictly Come Dancing, has described the show as a "life-changing opportunity".

The 22 year old former Coronation Street star won the glitterball trophy with her professional dance partner Vito Coppola on Saturday evening. Romance rumours have swirled around the pair during their time on the show.

Ellie has expressed her joy over her win, saying: "Words cannot describe how I am feeling right now and I cannot believe we have just won Strictly Come Dancing 2023."

"It's been a life-changing opportunity and I've had the time of my life dancing with Vito every week."

Paying tribute to Vita, she added: "It has been so special and to be able to do it with such a great teacher has made it an experience I will never forget."

"Thank you so much for that, Vito, and thank you for finding the dancer in me. We couldn't have won without the voting public, so a huge thank you to everyone at home who picked up the phone for us, we appreciate every single one of you!"

She also congratulated the other finalists and the 2023 cast, saying: "Finally, a big congratulations to all the finalists and all the 2023 cast, who are incredible and came alongside this journey with me."

Vito Coppola responded with an equally gushing tribute to Ellie as he said: "This is unbelievable, thank you so much to everyone who voted for us, we love you and it means the world to us!"

He also praised his partner, saying: "Ellie, my Lulu, I am so, so proud of you."

"I have seen how hard you have worked, the dedication and determination you have shown, and how much you have grown as a person these past three months."

"We've had the best time dancing together and I've enjoyed every second of it!"

"Thank you for being the best dance partner and thank you to everyone who has supported us each week and voted for us!".

The winner of the 2023 series was decided for by the public. On the judges’ scoreboard, which was provided as a guideline, Layton and Nikita had been in the lead with a total of 119 points.

Second to them was Bobby and Dianne, who had received 117 points, and they were followed by Ellie and Vito with 115.

During the grand finale of the BBC One dancing competition, the Strictly celebrities and professionals returned, pop superstar Cher performed her new Christmas single and Years And Years vocalist Olly Alexander announced he would be the UK entrant for the Eurovision Song Contest in 2024.

Last year, wildlife cameraman and presenter Hamza Yassin and professional dancer Jowita Przystal won the glitterball trophy.

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