Telly star Helen Skelton can’t wait for Strictly to get started so she can show her kids what she can really do.
The Countryfile presenter is one of the BBC’s big signings for the dance show, which starts in a fortnight.
But while millions will tune in to see the former Blue Peter host’s footwork, she’s not sure her children will.
Helen said: “I am a huge Strictly fan but my kids are not into it at all, which is annoying.”
In an exclusive interview before it was revealed she was taking part in the show, Helen said: “I choose my jobs around what works for my family. I just want my kids to believe they can do anything they want. I want to show them that if Mummy can do it, then they can do it too. I just want to be a good role model and lead by example.
“I always tell the kids they can do anything they want in life, but I think parents have to show them that too.”
Helen, 39, who is mum to Ernie, seven, Louis, five, and seven-month-old Elsie, reckons she is ready for Strictly’s notoriously hectic schedule and long days rehearsing.
She said: “I took two of my kids to the swimming European and World Championship, breastfeeding between interviews.
“I love giving my kids life experience and taking them to work with me.”
It’s an exciting time for Helen, who split from her rugby star husband Richie Myler in April.
As well as Strictly, she has just landed a segment on ITV ’s Lorraine, discussing physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.
Helen admitted that her priorities – and those for her kids – have changed in recent years.
She said: “I always wanted them to do well academically, but the more I go through life, I just want them to be happy and confident.
“I don’t want them to be the best reader or the top performer… I just want them to go into school smiling and come out smiling. That’s the main thing I care about.”
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC One on September 17
