Sunday Service: Week 8

No-one wants to be chucked off the coach to Blackpool before it's even left Elstree. For one participant, it is the end of the road. But who?

Kate & Aljaž started things of with their quickstep. It was bright and breezy. Her top line is a bit iffy in places, but that's being picky. It was relaxed and confident. She kept up with the music, and didn't appear to tire out.

Danny & Amy's samba was well choreographed, and nicely performed. But Danny's jerky side returned. It was too stiff and punchy, rather than smooth and bouncy. The hip action wasn't quite there. I want Danny to stay, though. He is a good dancer.

When the couples are doing contemporary dances, with amazing lifts, what is there for us to look forward to in the showdance at the end of the series? Ashley & Pasha's contemporary dance was gorgeous. It was emotional. The lifts were superb. Ashley & Pasha were a team throughout the dance. Excellent.

My reaction to Graeme & Oti's salsa was "I'm not sure what I just watched." It was the most bonkers salsa ever. Tredmills, Reebok steps, I Don't Like Cricket in the middle of Follow The Leader. Mad. But strangely entertaining, if a little flat footed.

What a jive from Faye & Giovanni! A wonderful sequence of turning kick ball-changes at the beginning. The whole thing was light and bright. Brilliant retraction on the flicks. And all danced in Latin sandals, which seems to be a dying art on Strictly. Loved it.

Stacey & Kevin's waltz was never going to stand out among the wow factor of jive or contemporary. It was nice, but lacked a bit of something. Good footwork, but needs more drive and more fluidity.

It was obvious that Dianne had really worked on Joe's hip and leg action. It wasn't quite there, and was lacking the undulation required, but it was a good effort. Samba is really difficult and I was impressed with Joe's effort. Not a classic, but a good attempt.

Lauren & AJ's Viennese waltz was gorgeous. It was romantic. It flowed well. Lauren't top line has improved since the last time she did ballroom. The underarm turn at the beginning was lovely. Excellent footwork. It was a great ending to the show.

The Charleston might have saved Charles & Karen from another dance-off. Like street/commercial, it totally suited Charles. It was a flawless performance. Great timing and musicality. Lovely swivel action. A cool Charleston.

The strongest for me this week were Ashley, Faye, Charles and Lauren.

There was no-one weak this week, and it's going to be heartbreaking to see anyone go home tonight. Could be anyone in the bottom. I suspect Kevin's fans will keep him and Stacey in. Graeme, Kate, Danny and Joe could all be in danger. Or maybe it's time for the shock exit that we usually see at least once a series.

Tonight's results show will be quite exciting.