Natalie Gumede shares ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ delight

The former Park High School student, who was born in Burnley, appeared on the BBC One hit television show on Saturday, alongside 14 other celebrities.

The actress, who this year scooped three gongs at the British Soap Awards, was left delighted with her partnership, and is now hotly tipped to walk away with the coveted glitterball trophy.

Natalie, who in 1996 won the Howard Rigg Leader Times Stage Young Performer award, wrote on Twitter: “I was SO nervous at the point of pairing, I think it shows!!! I literally don’t remember any of that happening! #scd #scd2013.

“As if he needs any introduction...my partner @artemchigvintse!!!!! I CANNOT WAIT to get in that rehearsal studio!!!”

An equally ecstatic Artem also used his social networking account to express his joy, writing: “Very happy and excited to be partner up with @NatalieGumede can’t wait to start!!!”

For full coverage of Saturday night’s show see this week’s Burnley Express, Nelson Leader and Colne Times.