She was originally the favourite to win, but Emma Bunton has been voted off hit BBC show Strictly Come Dancing after Saturday's semi-finals.
Despite being highly praised by the judges for her quick-footed routines, the former Spice Girl and her professional dance partner Darren Bennet were evicted in favour of her two male celebrity co-stars.
England cricketer Mark Ramprakash, who is now the favourite to win the contest, and rugby star Matt Dawson will battle it out in a final dance-off next Saturday.
But the Downtown singer will be comforted by judge and West End choreographer Arlene Phillips' critique of her abilities. "Emma is by far and away the strongest technical dancer, so if the voting was down to ability she would win."
Emma said she loved the experience and was delighted to be the last female left in the competition. "I am so proud," she said. "Darren has been like a brother.
We have become very close. Doing the show has taught me confidence, and not to worry about every little thing."
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Dance couple Emma and Darren delivered their final spin together on Saturday when they were voted out of hit show Strictly Come Dancing
Photo: © BBC
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Handsome cricketer Mark and his partner Karen Hardy are now the hot favourites to win the contest next weekend
Photo: © BBC
