Newcastle’s biggest Strictly Come Dancing fans reveal the ‘gorgeous’ couple they want to win

After 13 weeks of glitz and glamour, the Strictly Come Dancing 2021 final is finally upon us.

EastEnders' Rose Ayling-Ellis and partner Giovanni Di Prima will battle against The Great British Bake Off's John Whaite and partner Johannes Radebe for the coveted Glitterball trophy.

It's now just a two-horse race on Saturday night after TV presenter AJ Odudu was forced to withdraw with an injury.

In a statement released just over 24 hours before the final, AJ said: "I'm deeply upset that I am unable to perform in the Final due to a torn ligament in my right ankle.

"Good luck to my partners in dance, John & Johannes and Rose and Giovanni.

"I will be cheering you on (on one leg!)."

It's the latest withdrawal in a series rocked by injuries and Covid-19.

Bruno Tonioli had to be replaced as a judge by Anton Du Beke due to travel restrictions, whilst both Craig Revel Horwood and Motsi Mabuse missed weeks due to the virus.

Whilst AJ's withdrawal will be a big miss for Strictly fans, it is another of this year's finalists who seems to have captured the hearts of Newcastle.

While NewcastleWorld attended Newcastle Dance Centre's Strictly dance class on Monday night, we put it to the show's fans who they thought should win the show.

Each one tipped Rose as their winner, complementing her journey to this point.

The actress is deaf and has won over the nation with her inspiring story.

David, from Throckley, said: "The matching of the couples has been spot on this year and that's what's made it.

"Rose and Giovanni and probably my winner.

"It's a shame Dan got voted out, but he wasn't that good."

Cheryl, from Ryton, said: "Rose because of all the challenges she has as an individual as well as learning to dance.

"She's done really, really well."

Alan, from Chester-le-Street: "I'm a big fan of both.

"I'm really supportive of John and Johannes, I love watching them dance, but Rose and Giovanni when they did the Argentine Tango on Saturday was just amazing, one of the best dances ever on the show."

Sue, from Throckley, said: "I want Rose and Giovanni to win.

"This year he's been so different and has a real connection with her, it's changed him.

"He was a bit of a ladies' man beforehand but I think the partnership they've got is absolutely gorgeous."