Strictly Come Dancing stars Alex Scott and Kevin Clifton’s “accidental partnership” proved a hit with the judges for the second week in a row.
Clifton, 37, stepped in to dance with the former England footballer after her partner Neil Jones had to miss another live show due to a leg injury.
The professional had several days to learn the American Smooth routine to Ain’t No Mountain High Enough after Jones was ruled out of performing, having joined in with less than 45 minutes notice ahead of last Saturday’s live show.
The pair received 31 points from the judges, marking Scott’s highest score in the series so far.
“I felt we saw you for the first time - I have to say this accidental partnership is working wonders,” judge Craig Revel Horwood said.
Bruno Tonioli said that Scott is “growing in confidence” while his co-star Motsi Mabuse added that she is “falling more and more in love with [Scott’s] dancing.”
Head judge Shirley Ballas described the sports pundit’s improvement throughout the series as “miraculous,” branding her “a delight to watch.”
Jones shared his support for Scott on Twitter ahead of the couple’s performance, writing: “Wow @alexscott looks stunning again tonight. I can’t wait to see her perform tonight. Proud proud proud partner right here.”
Speaking on Strictly spin-off It Takes Two last night to confirm his absence from the show, Jones shared his hopes that he will be able to return to rehearsals next Monday if Scott remains in the competition.
Strictly Come Dancing continues with the results show on Sunday November 3 at 7.15pm on BBC One.
