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Nottingham Post
Nottingham Post
Entertainment
Paul T Smith & Alex Evans & Ben Hurst

Strictly host Janette steps in as 'flirty' Helen Skelton and Gorka 'play fight'

Strictly’s Helen Skelton and dance partner Gorka Marquez got into what has been described as a ‘flirty play fight’ on BBC2’s show - forcing host Janette Manrara to step in. The moment came as one body language expert said the pair had ‘grown incredibly close’ over the past few weeks.

On the Strictly It Takes Two show Helen, who recently split with Leeds Rhinos ex-husband Richie Myler, revealed Gorka had offered to take her away. Her dance partner then was asked by Janette where to - and he replied “The woods!”, before adding, looking guilty: “The Strictly woods” as he held his hands up in a gesture of innocence.

Body language expert Darren Stanton has said he’s noticed some interesting moments of intense eye contact between Helen and her pro-dance partner. Speaking on behalf of Betfair Casino, Darren added: “Helen and Gorka put on a fantastic performance and again, were completely in sync, the Daily Record reports.

Read more: Strictly hit with 'fix' claims after Fleur 're-recorded' dance-off after falling

“All of their facial expressions and gestures were in conjunction with feelings of true happiness and elation. I did notice some interesting moments of intense eye contact between the couple, which clearly shows they have grown incredibly close.”

On the BBC2 show Gorka paid tribute to his partner, saying he ‘loved the way’ she really took his advice on board and ‘always does her best’, and how he was ‘proud’ of her achievements, after the judges had said the pair were giving off ‘final’ vibes, Leeds Live reported.

Helen Skelton and dance partner Gorka Marquez have become very close according to a body language expert (BBC2)

Gorka added: “I like to put myself in the worst case scenario and then if it’s not the worst case scenario it’s good news. But the result of the choreography is that you do it well.” Helen said: “No, you’re nicer than me! I’m nicer than you!” as she pushed him on the shoulder and beamed.

Janette then stopped their play fighting, adding: “Oh stop it, it’s a love fest!” as the pair cracked up. Gorka said that Helen barely breaks sweat in their training and is blessed with great stamina. Janette described it as a ‘partnership made in heaven.’ then.”

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