Strictly Come Dancing 2011 – All the News & Gossip Series 9 Contestants - All you need to know about Strictly Come Dancing UK 2011
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What the celebs say…Strictly banter

 Jesse Wallace

Jesse says: “I’ve always wanted to do Strictly, all those amazing dresses and the fantastic make-up, it’s going to be masses of fun and what a great way to keep fit!â€

Don says: “The last time I danced was a very long time ago. I’m still learning to put one foot in front of the other one!â€

Rachel says: “Just because you’ve been on stage doesn’t mean you can dance. For the first time ever, I’m doing something completely on my own and it’s scary. I’ve always had other band members or dancers around me before.

“I would be thrilled if I won, but I can’t think that far ahead. I’m taking each training session as it comes and I’m looking forward to the sexy dances like the rumba.â€

John says: “I thought it was about time that I did something a bit absurd… My wife is a huge fan of Strictly Come Dancing and thinks I’m going to be terrible, but I’m looking forward to the ballroom so I can feel taller and slimmer in the Latin heels!â€
Lisa Snowden
Lisa says: “I never miss an episode of Strictly. I’m honoured to be involved this year; I will put my heart and soul into it.â€

Gary says: “I’m very proud – and very scared! – to be taking part in Strictly this year and I hope this leads to a great social pastime for my wife and I to enjoy together.â€
Gary Rhodes

Heather says: “I occasionally suffer from stage fright and, if left to my own devices, I would probably say no to anything scary.“However, everyone said I should give it a go, so I thought, why not? I just hope my nerves don’t get the better of me.â€

Heather Small

Austin says: “I miss the competitive element in my life now that I’ve retired from rugby and this will bring that back. I will give 100%.â€

Austin Heeley

Mark says: “I’m sure I’ll enjoy some good natured banter with them. I was an avid viewer when my friend Colin Jackson was the runner-up in 2005, and understand that this in a once-in-a-lifetime chance.â€

Mark Foster
Gillian says (on brother having premonition): “In his dream I didn’t win the show, but apparently didn’t do too badly, so I’m hoping his premonition becomes a reality!â€
Gillian Taylforth
She adds: “‘My son thinks I’ll be an embarrassment but I thought it was about time I had a bit of fun doing something I enjoy. I’ve got my foot spa ready to look after my tired and pained feet!â€

Jodie says: “I’m a huge fan of Strictly Come Dancing and, if I’m away, my Saturday night just isn’t the same!â€
Jodie Kidd
Phil says: “I hope I will surprise myself and be good at dancing – I just hope I don’t fall over or forget the steps!â€
Phil Daniels
Christine says: “I might have looked calm on the outside but I was shaking, and I suspect I will be the same on Strictly… I’m quite shy but am looking forward to learning such a beautiful skill.â€
Christine Bleakley
Tom says: “I had to tell my wedding guests that it was because of my Holby filming commitments!â€
Tom Chambers
He adds: “I want to become an excellent mover – I can’t wait to learn ballroom and wear the posh costumes. Hopefully I’ll last longer in the competition than I did on the celebrity Weakest Link where I was voted off in the first round!â€

Andrew says: “I don’t usually dance for fear of being categorised as an embarrassing dad, but I’m getting tips from Fiona Phillips and Kate Garraway who have both said that this show was the best thing that they have ever done in their lives.â€

Andrew Castle

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