STRICTLY Come Dancing fans in Dorset were proud to watch television presenter Ore Oduba raise the glitterball trophy as he was crowned champion.

The former rugby player, who grew up in Wimborne, broke down in tears as it was revealed he and partner Joanne Clifton had won the competition.

The sports broadcaster had received no dance training prior to taking part on the show and finished top of the leaderboard on Saturday night.

Ore, who in the lead-up to the final was quoted as saying he did not even dance at his own wedding, was left speechless as he was handed the trophy.

The 30-year-old, a former pupil of Canford School, thanked his dance partner, production crew and judges before telling Clifton: “I love you with all of my heart. I’m so speechless. I just want to say thank you.”

The CEO of Bournemouth Rugby Club, James Croker, followed Ore’s progress from the start as he played for the club’s First XV team in the 2004/2005 season as a winger.

“I think he epitomised who rugby players are and their values. He was very humble, but very competitive, and had respect for his competitors,” he said.

“He was a winger so he always had fast feet and good footwork. Everyone at the club has got fond memories of him, he’s one of the nicest guys you could meet.”

When asked whether Ore was as emotional after winning a rugby game as he was after winning Strictly, he said: “That was completely uncharacteristic of him, but it was obviously overwhelming for him to win.”

James added the club would be inviting Ore to their end of season dinner next May and would also be asking him to become an ambassador for the club.

The Mayor of Wimborne and Strictly fan, Cllr Sue Cook said she was “very proud” of Ore’s links to Wimborne, adding: “He’s been absolutely brilliant considering he had no prior dancing experience. He deserved to win.”