The 29-year-old former X Factor winner has had a tough couple of weeks, with the public appearing to turn on her, even landing in the dance-off for two shows running.

Now, she has spoken out about her professional partner Gorka, 27, gushing about their connection as she admitted that she would feel jealous of him dancing with anyone else.

Writing in her Radio Times column, Alexandra said that the death of her mother shortly before Strictly Come Dancing began has made the experience “bittersweet”,  but added that the show has been a “lifeline”.

"Having something so positive for me, and my family, to focus on at such a sad time has been incredible,” she explained. “And the person I need to thank, above all, for that is Gorka.

“I’m so grateful to him for putting up with everything I’ve been going through, emotionally and psychologically.

“Our relationship has been more intense than other partnerships and I’m sure he’s felt that strain, but he is always there for me and has never, ever made me feel bad,” she praised.

“Without a shadow of a doubt, the meaning of a true partnership has been defined for me in this experience and I have made a friend for life,” the popstar said, adding: “Although I’ll be really jealous of whoever he's dancing with next year!”

Alexandra’s comments come after weeks of rumours about Gorka’s relationship with fellow Strictly Come Dancing star Gemma Atkinson, 33.

Fans of the much-loved BBC dance competition have been speculating about a possible romance between the pair, although Gemma recently dismissed claims, lamenting her single status.

Read the full story in this week’s Radio Times - out now.

Strictly Come Dancing continues Saturday at 6.45pm on BBC One.