Kym: I’m inspired by brave Dad’s cancer battle

FORMER Coronation Street star Kym Marsh has told how her dad’s diagnosis of incurable cancer inspired her to take on the challenge of Strictly Come Dancing.

- Julia Kuttner

Kym is among a host of celebrities – including TV presenter Helen Skelton and actor Will Mellor – in this year’s BBC One series, and she has pledged “to grab things with both hands” following advice from her beloved father.

She also said she wants to represent “glamorous grannies” after becoming a grandmother for the second time last month.

And Helen Skelton, renowned for her have a-go antics on Countryfile and Blue Peter, said she can’t wait to swap her wellies for the glitzy dancing show.

Also appearing in the series, which launches on Friday, are James Bye, Molly Rainford, Kaye Adams, Richie Anderson, Jayde Adams, Ellie Simmonds, Tyler West, Matt Goss, Ellie Taylor, Tony Adams, Fleur East and Hamza Yassin.