CUMBRIAN Helen Skelton moved one step closer to lifting the Strictly Come Dancing title after scoring a near-perfect 39.

After a disappointing score of 29 for her samba last week, which included a five from Craig Revel-Horwood, Helen and her Spanish partner Gorka Marquez returned to form with their couple’s choice routine to music from the iconic musical ‘Cabaret’.

Helen and Gorka received a standing ovation from the judges and studio audience alike, with fans on social media also heaping praise on the TV and radio presenter.

He routine lead to head judge Shirley Ballas saying: “Wow, you have grown so much, what a sensual performance, it was off the charts and a memory I will treasure forever.

“Is this really a mummy of three or the shy timid girl we saw on week one?”

With fellow judge Motsi Mabuse adding: “That was all about you! You were a leader, commander and you had intention; what a strong performance.”

Her performance has led bookmakers to slash her odds on winning the famous glitterball trophy after current runaway favourite Hamza Yassin finished second bottom of the leader board.

Helen is now just above odds on to take the title at 6/4 with wildlife photographer Hamza and his partner Jowita placed at 8/13.

Despite finishing joint top of the leader board with Skelton, actor Will Mellor remains a distant third favourite with odds of 14/1 to see him win the crown.

Coronation Street star Kym Marsh left Strictly this week after missing the week before following a positive test for Covid.

The Strictly semi finals are scheduled to air on Sunday, December 11 with the results show on the following day after being moved to avoid a clash with England’s World Cup quarter final clash with France on Saturday evening on ITV.

The Strictly final may also have to moved depending on how the three lions fare in their upcoming World Cup quarter final.

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