Louie Spence lands judging role on Dancing On Ice

Spence rose to fame after appearing in Sky's Pineapple Dance Studio

Dancer and choreographer Louie Spence is to replace Jason Gardiner on the judging panel of ITV1's skating show Dancing On Ice, it has been announced.

Gardiner, who joined the show when it launched in 2006, has earned a reputation for his tough criticism.

Spence rose to fame after he appeared in the Sky docu-soap Pineapple Dance Studios.

In a statement the star said: "I'm looking forward to being part of such a challenging and spectacular show."

Another change to the judging panel, will see Olympic figure skating champion Katarina Witt replace Emma Bunton, who joined the show in 2009.

The German athlete dominated figure skating for more than a decade, winning Olympic golds in 1984 and 1988.

She also scooped an Emmy award for the 1990 film Carmen on Ice.

"I can't wait to join the Dancing On Ice judging panel. As well as offering support and constructive advice to this year's celebrity skaters I'm also looking forward to working alongside my close friends Torvill and Dean," she said.

Layla Smith, ITV's controller of entertainment, said: "The pair have a wealth of experience which they will be bringing to the new series.

"Their unique flare and passion for their professions will doubtless make for some interesting debates.

"We'd like to thank Emma Bunton and Jason Gardiner for their valued contribution during previous series and wish them both all the best with their future projects."

It was announced earlier this month that Christine Bleakley will replace Holly Willoughby as one of the hosts of the show.