With the cold weather setting in again outside, there was nothing better than a Saturday night of Strictly Come Dancing. Oh and it was the glitzy finale as well!
Actress Kara Tointon, presenter Matt Baker and Psychologist Pamela Stephenson all battled it out for the crown but it was ex-Eastender Tointon who triumphed after completing four stunning dances (whilst having just enough energy to lift the glitterball trophy at the end).
In Tointon, the British public chose the right winner (proving how letting just the public decide the winner can be successful, ahem... no hint to other shows needed!). With near professional dance skills and a lovely relationship with pro partner Artem Chigvintsev, Tointon rightly stormed to victory, beating Baker into second place and Stephenson in third.
This year's series has been a raging success after last year's let-down. A snappier format, better mix of celebrities and some inspired partnerships (Ann and Anton looked like they were made to dance together or at least grace the comedy circuits as a superb double-act) have seen Strictly once again hit top-form.
And whilst last night's glamorous finale was a fitting ending, it did disappoint on one count - the showdances. A freestyle masterpiece where anything goes. But unfortunately none of last night's three showdances really dazzled and amazed in equal measure.
Matt Baker was let down by his partner Aliona Vilani reliance on his tricks and flicks and not his dancing whilst Artem and Kara's ridiculously fast routine caught out Tointon a few too many times. Pamela and partner James Jordan's effort lacked any 'show' whilst still being a good dance.
But in the end there was enough sublime dancing on show to glaze over that disappointment. Kara and Artem lifted the glitterball trophy to confirm themselves as one of Strictly's best ever couples and confirm the show's sparkling return to form.
Picture from What's on TV
