Ed Balls reveals his wife's reaction to the news that he's taking part in Strictly Come Dancing

Ed Balls reveals his wife Yvette Cooper was keen for him to take part in this year's Strictly - he's also getting himself fit and hoping not to go out in the first or second week.

The former Labour politician said it was a "dream come true" to take part, even though he was "scared to death".

He is the first contestant to be confirmed for the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing, which will also be head judge Len Goodman's last season at the helm.