By Jessica Sansome

Copyright manchestereveningnews

Tess Daly has said that she can ‘spot’ who has the potential to win Strictly Come Dancing from the first show as she prepares for her return to the ballroom. The broadcaster will be back alongside her co-host, Claudia Winkleman, when the hit BBC One dance contest returns this Saturday (September 20). The launch show, which has been pre-recorded will see the new 15 celebrity contestants introduced to their professional dance partners for the first time, as well as a number of other Strictly treats and surprises including a group routine from the show’s talented pros. Ahead of the launch, Tess was asked what excites her most about returning to Strictly each year, having been there since the first-ever series in 2004. “I think the most exciting part of the entire series for me, bar the final, has to be meeting the new cast of celebrities,” the Stockport-born star shared. “The highlight of the launch show is watching that first group dance; the very first time we see the celebrities step on the dance floor. From that moment, I’ve learnt to spot who has the potential to make it all the way through the competition.” She continued: “This will be our 21st year of Strictly and we do not take it lightly when people tell us they cannot wait for the new series to start again. It is a privilege to be a part of their Saturday (and Sunday!) nights, and to be part of a show that brings families and friends together.” Tess, who has also been awarded an MBE for her services to broadcasting alongside Claudia, also revealed what she thinks makes a Strictly winner – and she doesn’t actually think there’s one champion, despite them lifting the Glitterball trophy at the end of the series. “This is a brilliant question and it’s quite a straightforward answer since, ultimately, a winner – and by the way it’s not just about lifting the trophy, there are always multiple winners each – is someone who simply throws themselves into the show; the dancing, the hair, the makeup, the amazing costumes, the themed weeks-all of it. “Ed Balls doing Gangnam Style is the perfect example of someone who did just that to brilliant effect. As did last year’s champion Chris [McCausland]. I think when the audience sees someone who’s really embracing the competition and giving it their all; they tend to really get behind them.” Meanwhile, Claudia added: “I would never presume to know the answer, but I think maybe what links them all is a fantastic partnership with their professional. I can’t’ wait to get to know the cast of 2025.” Celebrity dancers for this year include Doctor Who actress Alex Kingston, soap star Balvinder Sopal, former England rugby captain Chris Robshaw, model and CBBC actress Ellie Goldstein and podcast host George Clarke. The ensemble is completed by Gladiator star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, former footballers Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Karen Carney, drag queen and singer La Voix, Emmerdale actor Lewis Cope and entertainment reporter Ross King. Strictly Come Dancing returns on Saturday, September 20, at 6.40pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer