Karen... It's amazing to show the real me

Former Lioness on her Strictly dance joy

- BY NIKKI ONAFUYE

GLITTERBALL glory is weeks away for the winning pair but for Karen Carney, just reaching the Blackpool Tower Ballroom feels like victory on its own.

"Honestly, just walking around the building is special," the 38-year-old says, eyes lighting up as she talks about stepping into the historic ballroom for the first time.

"The architecture, the balconies, everything about Blackpool is magic. It hits you the moment you arrive."

It is a destination she never imagined she would reach. "Not at all," she says when asked whether Blackpool was on her Strictly bingo card.

The former Lioness says the show has completely transformed her. Nodding at pro partner Carlos Gu, she says: "This man next to me, he's helped me grow my confidence.