Conquering Karen sweeps to victory as Tess and Claudia waltz off Strictly

LIONESS Karen Carney lifted Strictly Come Dancing's glitterball on a historic night for the show as tearful hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman bowed out.

- BY STEPHEN BEECH

Emotional post from Claudia as the show began

Karen, 38, and pro partner Carlos Gu won the public vote, leaving her dazed and telling the presenters: "I can't believe it. It's been the biggest privilege and honour.

"At times out there I didn't feel like a footballer, I felt like a princess. I'm lost for words."

Claudia, 53, and Tess, 56, had just gathered themselves to announce the result after Queen Camilla sent a personal "thank you" to them for their stint on the show.

Before the live show began, Claudia with their catchphrase Keep Dancing emblazoned on her blazer posted a snap of herself and Tess holding hands as they entered the studio.

She wrote: "For the last time, I love you.'

Former England star Karen was the first ex-footballer to lift the dancing trophy.

She beat finalists George Clarke, 25, and Amber Davies, 29, after they each performed three times.

Their first dance was the judge's choice revisiting a previous routine after a masterclass with one of the panel.