Strictly Come Dancing star Anton Du Beke - famous for partnering a series of seriously strong women on the BBC’s hit show – harbours a secret wish.

As he and professional dance partner Erin Boag prepare to bring their show Anton and Erin Go To Hollywood to Croydon’s Fairfield Halls, 46 year old Anton spoke fondly of the divas he’s danced with.

Strictly bosses have matched the ballroom wizard with opera star Lesley Garrett, celebrity Nancy Dell ‘Olio and most recently model Jerry Hall. And who can forget his show-stopping turn with former politician Ann Widdicombe... lesser men would have buckled at the knees in such company.

“Of course it would be nice if I had a diva of about 26 who was quite bendy - that would different!” he confessed with a laugh during a break in rehearsals.

“But I think it’s a compliment to me, don’t you? I think they (the BBC bosses) believe I can get the most out of my partners... and I’ve loved working with them all!”

Anton admitted he never knew at the start of each series who he’d be dancing with.

“Although I think you can get a general idea at the start of the series who I might get, once you look at the line-up!” he said.

“But I mean that’s the point of Strictly: it’s not always about being a fabulous dancer, it’s about being wonderfully entertaining... I hope!”

Anton and Erin are rehearsing eight hours a day for their fifth annual UK tour, Anton and Eric Go to Hollywood. Complete with Richard Balcombe’s 25-piece orchestra, the show is a fabulous tribute to the golden years of the MGM musicals with tunes like Strike up the Band, That’s Entertainment, and 42nd Street. The couple, who’ve been professional dance partners since 1997, are not romantically linked. Erin is married to businessman Peter O’Dowd and Anton is dating businesswoman Hannah Summers. “Erin and I have been together longer than most married couples,” joked Anton.

“I remember Len Goodman when he was a young man, that’s how long it’s been!”

Anton and Erin Go To Hollywood is at the Fairfield Halls, Croydon on Wednesday, February 20 at 7.30pm. To book tickets visit www.fairfield.co.uk or email boxoffice@fairfield.co.uk