Strictly Come Dancing's 'dance-off' to be axed

The Strictly Come Dancing 'dance-off' which traditionally decides the outcome of the show is to be axed in the new series, according to the papers.

The Mirror reports that viewers will be given more power over the results of the show, which returns in October.

And instead of the bottom two couples reprising their performances, with one being saved by the judges, the show will now feature a professional dance and the results.

"We want people at home to feel they are really in control of the show and this seems a way to make sure they have the last say, and not the judges, who used to save someone in the dance-off," a source told the paper. "They can’t save anyone now."

The new series will see the return of the Sunday night results show - presented by Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman - after last year's extended Saturday night show proved unpopular with viewers.

"Strictly pioneered the Sunday night results format and this year we're back with the perfect finish to the weekend," said Mark Linsey, BBC Controller Of Entertainment Commissioning.

The show returns on October 2, with a launch show introducing this year's celebrities and their partners to be screened on September 11.