Strictly Come Dancing 2016: Melvin Odoom crowned Christmas champion as Len Goodman bows out

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Emma Powell25 December 2016

Melvin Odoom has been crowned the Strictly Come Dancing 2016 Christmas champion.

Odoom, 36, scored 40 points as he danced his way to the top with professional partner Janette Manrara to a Charlestone inspired by Christmas classic, Elf.

Speaking about his win Odoom – who was the first dancer voted out of the latest series – said: “It’s the best Christmas ever. I’m going to put [the trophy] on my front door so people know.”

Former 2016 stars Lesley Joseph, Greg Rutherford, Laura Whitmore, Naga Munchetty and Ed Balls cheered on from the side lines before running on to lift the Kiss FM DJ into the air.

His routine was hailed as a “festive pick-me-up that hit all the spots” by Bruno Tonioli and “a-ma-zing” by the usually critical Craig Revel Horwood.

Head judge Len Goodman added: “Melvin what a parcel of joy fun and entertainment. It was a lovely Christmas present to see you back dancing again.”

Odoom received four 10’s from the judges and was crowned champion after his 40 points were combined with the audience vote.

He fought off tough competition from singer Frankie Bridge, who also scored top points with her Frozen inspired American Smooth to Let It Go.

In action: Melvin Odoom strikes a winning pose
BBC

Tonioli said it sent “shivers and chills” down his spine while Revel Horwood said Bridge managed to “melt” his cold heart with her “wonderful” routine.

Pamela Stephenson repeated history by finishing third, six years after she reached the same position on the BBC ballroom show.

Her Love Actually inspired Cha Cha received 39 points and a standing ovation. The routine was deemed “truly fantastic” by Revel Horwood and “hot, sleek, fun and fabulous” by Darcey Bussell.

Top points: Frankie Bridge dances a Frozen themed routine
BBC

Olympian Denise Lewis and TV presenter Gethin Jones finished in joint fourth and earned 38 points for their Christmas inspired routines.

Celebrity chef Ainsley Harriott finished bottom of the leaderboard with 35 points after failing to challenge his rivals with his Home Alone inspired Jive to Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.

The festive special also marked Goodman's final appearance on the show.

Goodman took to the dancefloor with his fellow judges and dancers as he bowed out of the show after 14 years.

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