Eastender set for Strictly

Actress to become showÂ’s oldest contestant...

10:29 23 November 2010

Eastenders veteran June Brown is to become Strictly Come DancingÂ’s oldest contestant when she joins a host of celebrities for the showÂ’s Christmas special.

The actress, who is 83 and plays Dot Branning in the BBC One soap, will be partnering Vincent Simone for the show, due to air over the festive period.

Her inclusion in the show will mark StrictlyÂ’s oldest contestant after 72-year-old Paul Daniels previously held the accolade when taking part in this yearÂ’s show.

Brown is said to be terrified at the prospect of performing in front of a mass audience and said: “I must be barmy and I'm not sure what's come over me.

"I just hope I can remember the steps to the routines. I'm looking forward to working with the professional dancers and the other contestants.”

Others taking part are said to include presenter Fern Britton, actor John Barrowman, Business Secretary Vince Cable and comedian Ronni Ancona.