Bobby Brazier’s tearful dance and a near kiss for Ellie and Vito

In a what has been named as a “full circle” moment, it was Angela Rippon who made her departure during Blackpool Week. The 79-year-old who had previously wowed with her leg splits ended up at the bottom of the leaderboard following her American Smooth and was unable to best Bobby Brazier and Dianne Buswell who also landed in the bottom two following their Jive.

Layton Williams and Nikita Kuzmin opened the show with an American Smooth that could belong on any stage, what staging! Surprises, sparks, and of course, dancing in a stylish way. And we have to mention that ending, the shushing of Craig even elicited a giggle from Craig. Though perhaps let’s leave out the beginning, as might have been the weakest part of the routine.

Although a lack of smoothness, didn’t impress Shirley and Anton saw some “lumpy” moments. Layton has consistently been a frontrunner in this competition, but has the star found himself in danger?

Judges’ scores: 34 (8, 9, 8, 9) – one of the pair’s lowest scores over the past few weeks

Nigel has been on quite a journey this competition, but the Rumba might have been his dance. The West End styling for his solo performance was great for dance and he really captured the romance, and no mistakes in sight. I’m just so sorry to the Strictly singers, as that didn’t work for me.

Judges’ scores: 33 (8, 8, 8, 9) – just one point behind Layton

I wasn’t sure what I was expecting from Annabel and the Paso Doble, but it certainly wasn’t her charing into Johannes’s arms! My jaw dropped! The audience loved it, the judges loved it, well apart from Craig saying it lacked the “fire”. But come on Craig, the polka dot skirt, the mood, what more do we need?!

Judges’ scores: 36 (8, 9, 9, 10) – their first 10!

The Cha-Cha-Cha is a hard dance, and while we loved Angela’s attempt at the dance, there was plenty for the judges to point out, including that mean one, Craig Revel Horwood. Also if Carlos’s purple shirt goes missing later, do not look in my wardrobe!

Judges’ scores: 31 (7, 7, 8, 9) – this puts Angela at the bottom of the leaderboard

Annabel Croft touched audiences with her emotional Couple’s Choice several weeks ago, and Bobby has just done the same with a routine dedicated to his late mum, Jade Goody. Many people were left in tears, including Dianne, Shirley Ballas and Anton Du Beke, with the judge even saying he’d be proud if his six-year-old grew up to be like the actor.

Judges’ scores: 37 (8, 9, 10, 10) – the pair’s highest score yet

Ellie Leach and Vito Coppola are proving to be front-runners with their dancers, but that perfect score eluded her once again with Anton Du Beke and Craig Revel Horwood noting different issues. We, however, believed it deserved that perfect score, and we’re sure either her or Layton will soon grab the first one of the series!

Judges’ scores: 38 (9, 10, 10, 9) – this puts them at the top of the leaderboard