Strictly bosses axe Blackpool final

BBC bosses have scrapped 'Strictly Come Dancing's Blackpool final.

The talent show is due to begin shortly, and despite the ending of the series always heading to the Lancashire town, producers have decided against it this year due to cost reasons.

A spokesperson confirmed: '''Strictly' has enjoyed a fabulous relationship with Blackpool over the years but it's a mammoth logistical exercise and on this occasion the decision has been taken to put resources into other areas of the show.''

Bosses from Blackpool Tower, under which the final takes place, have expressed dismay at the idea, claiming the town is a ''mecca for dance''.

They said in a statement: ''It is obviously a huge disappointment to learn the programme will not be returning this year, not just to us but to the many thousands of ballroom fans who love to see Strictly in Blackpool each year.

''Everyone knows Blackpool is the home of ballroom and a mecca for dance.''

British Olympic gold medallist Victoria Pendleton, TV presenter Fern Britton, Westlife singer Nicky Byrne and cricketer Michael Vaughn are all rumoured to be taking part in the next series.