Audenshaw's Ellie Leach, 22, emerged victorious on the grand stage of BBC’s ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ last weekend, making her the youngest winner on the popular dance show. The talented actress, known for her roles on Coronation Street, also proved her abilities on the dance floor, claiming the glitterball trophy after a dazzling competition.
Breath-taking performances and a relentless pursuit of excellence marked Leach's journey through the competition.
Her local connection is strong, as Ellie's roots tie back to the community, adding a layer of pride for fans and supporters in Tameside. She was born in Audenshaw and is a past pupil of Fairfield High School for Girls in Droylsden. Ellie also attended Aldwyn Primary School in Audenshaw. She has also recently been announced as the youngest patron of Willow Wood Hospice.
The hospice, renowned for its palliative care services, has found a passionate advocate in Leach eager to contribute to the organisation's mission of providing comfort and care to those facing life-limiting illnesses.
From the first dance to the finale, Ellie captivated judges and audiences alike with her precision and charisma. Her commitment to mastering various dance styles, from the sultry sambas to the elegant waltzes, showcased her versatility and dedication to the art of dance
Leach's partnership with her professional dance partner, Vito Coppola, was crucial to her success. The duo seamlessly navigated each routine, earning praise for their chemistry and seamless synchronicity. Judges consistently commended Ellie for her improvement and commitment, highlighting her as a standout contender throughout the competition.
Reacting to their win, Ellie said she "genuinely cannot believe this," adding that it was the first time she had seen Vito cry.
"For once, he's crying more than me," she said. She turned to her dance partner and said, "This is for you."
Ellie's fan base grew as the competition intensified, rallying behind her with unwavering support. Social media buzzed with excitement as viewers eagerly anticipated her performances each week. The nail-biting finale only heightened the suspense.
They faced stiff competition from the other remaining couples – Layton Williams, also with roots in Tameside and his dance partner Nikita Kuzmin, and Bobby and Dianne Buswell.
But Ellie ultimately claimed the coveted glitterball trophy, cementing her status as the season's champion.
Below is a video made by Ellie's primary school:
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