This series in particular has fuelled rumours of romance, with the likes of Debbie McGee, Mollie King and Gemma Atkinson all batting away dating claims.

However, they have all denied romance claims insisting they are only friends with their co-stars.

Now, a former star has let slip the truth behind the "Strictly curse" which has plagued the show for years.

Konnie Huq, who participated in Children In Need’s Strictly Come Dancing special, revealed what she really thinks about the rumoured hex.

The 42-year-old was partnered with Neil Jones who has never been coupled with a celebrity, despite being on the show for two years.

Speaking about the so-called “curse" she said: "You know what, you end up having to do long hours of rehearsal.

"We did a few days and I thought, 'Oh, this is quite intense'. They do weeks, so it's really full on,” she told The Daily Star.

"You either end up loving each other or hating each other. It's so full on, it's a real test. If they end up hating each other, they cover it up well."

The former Blue Peter presenter also gushed about Neil, saying: "He is so awesome. I'm a little bit in love with him. He's so good.

"He's won so many awards as well. Of all the dancers on that programme, he's the champion of ballroom. He holds so many titles.”

Konnie even insisted Neil be partnered up with a celebrity on the hit BBC series, saying: “He totally deserves a chance to do the show. I'm in awe of him, he's brilliant. He's such a nice guy."

The Strictly Come Dancing final airs on Saturday at 6.30pm on BBC One.