'Unfinished business'...Gio hopes for Strictly return

GIOVANNI Pernice has told friends he hopes to return to Strictly next year, despite the BBC upholding bullying claims against him.

- Laura Armstrong

The broadcaster's long-awaited report into accusations by actress Amanda Abbington cleared the 34-year-old dancer of violence.

But the BBC the review, which looked into 17 complaints, upheld six "verbal bullying and harassment" claims by Sherlock star Amanda.

The broadcaster has now issued an apology to the actress, 50.

Giovanni has strongly denied the allegations against him.

Meanwhile, sources close to the dancer, who has signed up for the Italian version of Strictly, said he had not given up hope of returning to the UK show next year.