STRICTLY Come Dancing partners Karen Hardy and Gary Rhodes took to the dancefloor again to celebrate the launch of the celebrity chef’s new Christchurch restaurant.

The pair, who were voted off in the third week of the BBC series, put their dancing shoes on again to entertain football legends Harry Redknapp, Tony Adams and Bob Wilson at the opening of Rhodes South.

It was a glamorous evening at the Christchurch Harbour Hotel, where Gary’s second Christchurch restaurant enjoys a stunning waterfront location.

The menu reflected this with plenty of fish and crustacean dishes along with a carefully selected wine list.

The chef told guests he hoped it would boost Christchurch’s profile. He said: “I’m delighted to open Rhodes South in Christchurch, a restaurant which will offer exceptional food in a tranquil surrounding.

“It will also perfectly complement the Kings Rhodes brasserie to offer locals and visitors an excellent choice of menu for both relaxed and more formal occasions.

“It’s an exciting time for me and Harbour Hotels Group and I hope this new venture will help to put Christchurch on the culinary map.”