Richard Dunwoody falls at second Strictly fence

Sunday, 27th September 2009.

Legendary jockey Richard Dunwoody last night became the second celebrity to be voted off Strictly Come Dancing.

The horse racing legend took to the floor for the first time as the second group of celebrity contestants and their professional dance partners had to show their moves.

On Friday each pair performed a ballroom dance before last night's Latin number.

But Richard didn't really look at ease. He and partner Lilia Kopylova performed a waltz on Friday night and a cha-cha-cha yesterday, which neither the judges nor viewers liked.

They were therefore in the bottom two, facing a dance off with Coronation Street star Craig Kelly and his partner Flavia Cacace, who also disappointed across their two dances.

But after performing again to try to stay in the competition, it was Richard who received the overall thumbs down.

Here's what the judges said as they decided who to save:

Craig Revel Horwood: "For me the choice is clear – Craig and Flavia."

Alesha Dixon: "I hate this bit of the show... for fighting spirit I'm going to save Craig and Flavia."

Bruno Tonioli: "Based on this performance I have to go, without doubt, for couple number one – Craig and Flavia."

This left Head Judge Len Goodman's vote pointless, although he voted to save Richard: "Well it's more consolation but I actually went for Richard and Lilia."

Richard wasn't too downbeat to find out he was going home though: "It's been an unbelievable experience," he said. "We've had our ups and downs along the way but it's been magical.

"Lilia has really done a tremendous job over the last four weeks."

Lilia had similarly lovely things to say about her former jockey partner:

"Well, Richard, you definitely have been by far the most hard-working partner I've had.

"He's really worked so hard because it didn't come easy.

"The best thing is I'm going to finally get to learn how to ride horses now."

Next week, the remaining 14 couples will compete against one another for the first time as the contest heats up.

I can't wait!

Image Credit: BBC