The flashing sequins, lurex and chiffon always put Christmas pantos in the shade, to say nothing of the glitterball prize. Yet in this, the 20th year of Strictly Come Dancing , it was the contestant who could see none of the bling who was to win in the end. In what was officially “the highest scoring Strictly final ever”, according to the mistress of ceremonies, Claudia Winkleman, it was Chris McCausland , who lost his sight 25 years ago, who walked away the winner on Saturday night, accompanied by his professional dance partner, Dianne Buswell.
“I have learned that I am more capable than I thought I was,” said McCausland. “It has been full of so many joyful moments.” “I think you will change people’s lives, my love,” declared Anton du Beke.
Even that renowned grouch, Craig Revel Horwood, was moved to poetry, penning lines addressed to the eventual winner that concluded: “You are light that shines for all to see.” Greeting McCausland after a waltz to the adopted Liverpudlian anthem, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s You’ll Never Walk Alone, Winkleman congratulated McCausland with the words: “Chris, you have officially broken Craig Revel Horwood and we are all grateful.” Comedian McCausland, who suffers from retinitis pigmentosa and who led the betting all the way down the final furlong, was crowned the king of the dancefloor in the show’s anniversary outing.
The 47-year-old was honoured for surpassing all expectations as he tackled complex routines wit.
