'Strictly Come Dancing' bosses have axed glitter to help protect the environment.

Ashley Roberts

Ashley Roberts

The BBC One Latin and ballroom show's producers have decided against using the colourful, reflective particles - which jazz-up contestants' dancefloor looks on the programme - for the upcoming series to protect sealife, because the particles can be washed out to sea.

An insider said: "Glitter and sparkle are key things about 'Strictly'.

"For many fans the outfits and looks are almost as important as the dances."

Show bosses are said to be on the hunt for a more eco-friendly way of ensuring the contestants retain a 'Strictly' sparkle on the dancefloor.

The insider added to The Sun newspaper: "It means the make-up and costume teams are working harder than ever to find something to comply with new rules but still give the celebs a showbiz finishing touch."

As well as the 150 litres of liquid glitter used on the show since its 2004 launch, 'Strictly' has also become known for using sequins to bring the contestants' costumes to life.

However, experts believe show bosses may be forced to axe the disk-shaped beads from future shows, too, to protect the environment.

'Strictly' contestant Susannah Constantine has admitted she contemplated hiring a professional dance tutor to help her get the upper hand ahead of the show's tough rehearsals.

She said: "I thought about hiring professional help - a big 'Strictly' No-No. My husband even found me a local professional dance tutor, the son of his bike mechanic, but I didn't want to get done for cheating.

"In hindsight, I regret it."

Lee Ryan, Chucky Venn, Seann Walsh, Kate Silverton, Ashley Roberts, Stacey Dooley, Dr Ranj Singh, Graeme Swann, Vick Hope, Katie Piper, Faye Tozer, Danny John-Jules Lauren Steadman, and Joe Sugg have also signed up for the series, which starts next month.

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