Robin Windsor hopes Kristina Rihanoff and Ben Cohen's relationship will "go the distance".

Robin Windsor and Kristina Rihanoff

Robin Windsor and Kristina Rihanoff

The former 'Strictly Come Dancing' professional - who is Kristina's long-time dance partner - has revealed he'd like to see the couple overcome the difficulties they've faced since getting together following Ben's stint on the BBC One celebrity dance contest in 2013.

He said: "My hope for them is that they stick at it and go the distance just like any other couple.

"Everyone has had their ups and downs. If their relationship is strong enough they'll fight through them and realise it's all about one another."

Kristina - who previously dated Joe Calzaghe after being partnered with him on 'Strictly' - was branded a home-wrecker after retired rugby star Ben split from his wife Abby.

But Robin insists Ben - who has twin daughters with Abby - needn't worry if Kristina is partnered with yet another hunky celebrity on the upcoming series of the show.

He told the Daily Mirror newspaper: "Ben's got nothing to worry about, it's the same with any occupation. You're dancing with someone and to us as ballroom Latin dancers, the touchy feely side we've been doing since we were four years old. That to us is just normal, people from the outside world see it as a bit intense."

The 35-year-old star - who is dating former 'X Factor' contestant Marcus Collins - added that Kristina is attracted to Ben because he can "look after her".

Robin added: "Kristina needs someone that is going to take care of her and look after her. She's a strong woman so as long as she's got that she'll be very happy."