Anton Du Beke, 60, career move announced away from Strictly

Strictly Come Dancing judge Anton Du Beke has announced his new career move away from the BBC show.

The British dancer, 60, co-wrote the swing track Dance My Way To Christmas, which will be released as a single next month ahead of the festive season.

He will also perform the single as part of his brand-new festive show, Anton At Christmas, which will run from December 10-22 across the UK including in Oxford.

He said: “Launching a Christmas single is something I’ve always wanted to do, for as long as I can remember.

“For me, Christmas is the most magical time of year and the music played is a huge part of that and what makes it so memorable.

“All the favourites are rolled out, and for Dance My Way To Christmas to possibly be part of the seasonal playlists is a dream come true!”

The song, which he first posted on YouTube last year, was co-written by Jacqui Hicks and also features vocals from Lance Ellington.

Du Beke previously released a 2017 album, From The Top, which included covers of classics including Putting On The Ritz, Fly Me To The Moon and It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year.

He added: “When we got into the studio with the band and Lance, it was everything I could have dreamed of.

“I can’t wait to share it with people.”

The Christmas single will be available to stream and download on the usual music platforms from November 6.