Anton du Beke

I went professional with my partner, Erin Boag, 11 years ago, and we had success competing round the world, but appearing on 'Strictly' has changed my life. ”

I was one of those people who just flitted about in life. I had no plans and no sense of direction. ”

The worst question is, 'Where do you see yourself in five years?' I don't know. Variety is the spice of life. That's the best way to describe it. ”

You spend your life having lessons, practising and competing as an amateur, and working during the day. As you get to the top end of the amateur field, you try not to work anymore; you earn your living through dancing, maybe by doing a bit of teaching. It's an ongoing life's work. ”

Having been part of this wonderful show ever since series one, I know all too well what it's like to perform to the nation on the famous 'Strictly Come Dancing' dancefloor. ”

I just like to sit and admire my garden; it's so well kept by my gardener and my girlfriend. ”

I do watch what I eat, but I don't make it myself. When I eat out, I just have to make sure the things I buy are good and healthy. ”

My perfect morning is spent drinking coffee, eating porridge and reading the paper at a local cafe. ”

I always enjoy the process, meeting somebody new and spending time with them and becoming friends with them. That has always been the joy of 'Strictly' for me, so I enjoy every year. ”

Because we had no other relatives living in the U.K., me, my parents and my siblings continuously journeyed abroad to bond with our extended family. ”