Injured Ali Bastian will dance in Strictly semi-final

The Bill actress Ali Bastian will perform in the Strictly Come Dancing semi-final later despite a recurring foot injury, it has been confirmed.


Bastian, 26, has struggled since spraining her foot a fortnight ago.

Laila Rouass and partner Anton Du Beke - who were knocked last week - were on standby but have been told to stand down.

A BBC spokesman said: "All the remaining couples will perform in tonight's semi-finals as expected."

Bastian and her partner Brian Fortuna will compete against Hollyoaks actor Ricky Whittle and his partner Natalie Lowe, and BBC Breakfast sports presenter Chris Hollins and his partner Ola Jordan.

The couples will perform two dances each, taking to the floor with a dramatic Argentine tango plus a ballroom or Latin dance.

The West End cast of the musical Hairspray and singer Lily Allen are also appearing on the show.