Tess Daly: 'I'm staying on Strictly'

Strictly Come Dancing host Tess Daly has rubbished claims that she is to leave the programme.

Last week, it was reported that Daly's role on the ballroom contest would be taken over by The One Show's Christine Bleakley after her current contract expires in 2011.

However, speaking to The Mirror, Daly insisted: "I'm not leaving Strictly. I love it too much. And I'm just glad so many people enjoy the show."

She added: "There's no truth in the rumours. I'm staying put."

A spokesperson for Bleakley also recently denied the speculation, confirming that no approach had been made for the 31-year-old to join Strictly.

Strictly Come Dancing will return to screens in the autumn.

DS