Tess and Claudia are soon to be leaving Strictly (Image: Getty)

Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have been part of Strictly Come Dancing for years, with Tess having presented the main show since its inception in 2004. Claudia started as a host on the spin-off show It Takes Two before becoming a main host alongside Tess in 2014 when Bruce Forsyth stepped down.

The women have been the glue holding the show together for the past decade, with BBC viewers tuning in to see them (as well as their glittering outfits) as much as the celebrities’ dances each week. However, the pair announced to the world in recent weeks that this series would be their last, causing shockwaves through the TV industry. The question on everyone’s lips has been, ‘Who will replace Tess and Claudia?’

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Ahead of the final, which airs on December 20, ballroom dancer Katie Murray, 32, who has danced with pros such as Amy Dowden, revealed who she thinks would be perfect at filling Tess and Claudia’s shoes.

In an exclusive interview with Express.co.uk, she said: “In terms of who I think should replace the pair, I feel a smart decision would be to use someone who already has links to the show and who people know and love.

“So, the likes of Zoe Ball, who was a huge hit on It Takes Two, or former Strictly professional and It Takes Two host Janette Manrara would be ideal.

Could Janette Manrara be the right host? (Image: Getty)

“With all the scandals going on, they need someone who is almost safe and reliable and loved by the Strictly fan base.”

When asked how to maintain viewership when Tess and Claudia step down from the show and a new season starts, Katie said it’s key to recruit two hosts who can attract a wide audience of both young and mature viewers.

“It takes a while to adjust to one new presenter, let alone two, so making the right choice is crucial.”

Tess and Claudia’s final appearance will be during the Christmas celebrity special, which airs on December 25